Kamloops, B.C. takes the cake as Canada’s most dangerous city, according to Crime Severity Index (CSI) data reported by Statistics Canada on July 25, 2024.
The CSI measures the severity of crimes reported to police. Unlike traditional crime rate measures, which count the number of incidents, the CSI assigns a weight to each type of crime, with more serious crimes receiving higher weights.
Here are the top-10 most dangerous cities in Canada, according to the CSI, as of July 25, 2024.
Kamloops, B.C. – Kamloops tops the list with a CSI of 165.3. Despite being a beautiful city, Kamloops faces significant crime challenges.
CSI: 165.3
Percentage Change Annually: 10 per cent
Crime Rate: 13,116 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: -2 per cent
Chilliwack, B.C. – Chilliwack is another city facing high crime rates with a CSI of 156.2. Known for its outdoor activities and beautiful scenery, Chilliwack’s safety concerns are a growing issue.
CSI: 156.2
Percentage Change Annually: 24 per cent
Crime Rate: 11,615 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: 17 per cent
Red Deer, Alta. – Red Deer is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life, however, it also struggles with high crime rates.
CSI: 146.9
Percentage Change Annually: -11 per cent
Crime Rate: 12,765 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: -8 per cent
Winnipeg, Man. – Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, faces significant crime issues, impacting its residents’ sense of security.
CSI: 129.1
Percentage Change Annually: -6 per cent
Crime Rate: 8,193 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: -6 per cent
Lethbridge, Alta. – Lethbridge is known for its educational institutions and natural beauty, but it also has a high crime severity index.
CSI: 129.1
Percentage Change Annually: 7 per cent
Crime Rate: 9,376 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: -1 per cent
Nanaimo, B.C. – Nanaimo faces considerable crime challenges despite its picturesque setting.
CSI: 125.5
Percentage Change Annually: -2 per cent
Crime Rate: 10,200 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: -9 per cent
Kelowna, B.C. – Kelowna, a popular tourist destination known for its wineries and stunning lake views, also has a high CSI.
CSI: 118.6
Percentage Change Annually: -6 per cent
Crime Rate: 9,423 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: -9 per cent
Saskatoon, Sask. – Saskatoon, known for its river views and vibrant arts scene, faces high crime rates that affect its residents’ safety.
CSI: 116.3
Percentage Change Annually: -1%
Crime Rate: 8,730 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: 5%
Regina, Sask. – Regina has a significant crime problem that impacts its overall livability.
CSI: 111.6
Percentage Change Annually: 7 per cent
Crime Rate: 7,988 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: 3 per cent
Abbotsford–Mission, B.C. – Abbotsford–Mission is known for its agriculture and scenic views, but it also has notable crime issues.
CSI: 107.6
Percentage Change Annually: 23 per cent
Crime Rate: 6,725 per 100,000 people
Percentage Change Annually: 15 per cent
The significant increase in both CSI and crime rates highlights growing safety concerns in the area, necessitating immediate and comprehensive crime reduction strategies.
Trends over the past decade
There has been a general increase in the CSI across major Canadian cities. Violent crime rates have seen a more pronounced increase compared to non-violent crimes. Cities in Prairie provinces also tend to have higher CSIs.
What’s contributing to the rise in crime?
According to Stats Canada, several factors contribute to rising crime rates, the first being economic hardships.
High levels of poverty and unemployment can lead to increased crime rates and economic hardships often push individuals toward criminal activities as a means of survival.
Drug and alcohol abuse are also significant contributors to crime. Cities with higher rates of substance abuse often see corresponding increases in both violent and non-violent crimes. Stats also show drug and alcohol abuse increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Social issues such as domestic violence, mental health issues, and social instability can contribute to higher crime rates. Communities with limited access to mental health services and social support are particularly vulnerable.
Adequate policing and community resources are also crucial for preventing and addressing crime. Cities with stretched law enforcement resources and insufficient community support often struggle to manage and reduce crime.
Read More: Sask. RCMP report increase in violent crime
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