A new FBI report indicates that murder rates increased during 2021, while violent crime decreased overall. However, the agency is facing criticism over the credibility of its data, which relies heavily on estimation due to a lack of participation by law enforcement agencies—including those in crime hubs like Los Angeles and New York City:
“The overwhelming lack of law enforcement participation presents a challenge when assessing the true state of nationwide crime in America,” said Jillian Snider, the policy director for the R Street Institute’s criminal justice and civil liberties team.
Snider, a retired NYPD cop, said everyone should “proceed with caution” in using this data for new criminal justice policy.
Incomplete data fuels a lack of confidence in the government's ability to maintain law and order:
“Credible crime trend data is more important than it has been in 25 years — but now the numbers are at their most uncertain,” Adam Gelb, CEO of the CCJ, told CNN. “This [information] void allows speculation and manipulation, and further erodes trust and confidence in the justice system, and in government generally.”
Philadelphia is another example of where lack of participation could severely skew the data:
For instance, the FBI's estimates say carjackings rose 11.5% in 2021, but it likely rose more dramatically in reality due to cities like Philadelphia not fully reporting data.
And things are looking even worse for next year.
The FBI's report contradicts its own message that violent crime is on the rise:
The FBI release comes months after bureau deputy director Paul Abbate admitted that homicides and assaults were occurring at an "appalling rate" in April.
"We’re seeing a disturbing violent crime surge across the country. I know you’re seeing it too," Abbate said at the time. "There’s gun violence, homicides and aggravated assaults, and are all occurring at an appalling rate, not to mention hate crimes and the persistent threat posed by violent extremists."
The facts don't lie. The Biden Crime Crisis continues to rage on, and the only ones providing real solutions to keep Americans safe are Republicans.