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There are many crimes that contribute to the overall Fort Lauderdale crime rate, and if you are facing criminal charges for one of these crimes, you do not have to do everything on your own. A Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer at The Kirlew Law Firm can help you understand the applicable laws and handle your criminal defense case.
Fort Lauderdale Crime Rate
Fort Lauderdale has a high crime rate compared to many other cities around the state and country. In a 2024 survey, Fort Lauderdale ranked as the third most unsafe city in the United States. The total crime rate in Fort Lauderdale is 40.19 per 1,000 residents, with a violent crime rate of 4.69 and a property crime rate of 35.51 per 1,000 residents.
Reported crimes in the area, calculated per 100,000 residents, primarily include:
- Theft: 3,081.7
- Burglary: 582.6
- Vehicle theft: 492
- Assault: 384.6
- Murder: 20.1
- Rape: 49.4
- Robbery: 174.1
Crime trends in Fort Lauderdale show a mixed picture, with some specific offenses increasing while broader state and national trends indicate general decreases. While Florida saw a 50-year low in crime in 2021, certain areas of Fort Lauderdale experienced spikes in vehicle thefts in 2023 and a 51% increase in armed incidents between 2018 and 2020.
When a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney reviews your case, they can apply geographic relevance to the situation, with ample local knowledge and understanding of Fort Lauderdale crimes. Each case varies, and determining the right defense for criminal charges requires extensive investigation of the facts. Different factors determine different charges and penalties.
Contributing Factors to the Crime Rate
When trying to understand criminal defense laws, it can help to look at the causes behind the crime rates. In Fort Lauderdale, for example, contributing factors to the crime rate are complex and stem from a combination of socioeconomic disparities, the dynamics of a heavy tourist population, specific geographic and commercial activities, and even the effects of warm weather.
Within the city, poverty and economic inequality can create a sense of relative deprivation and frustration, leading some individuals to resort to criminal activity out of necessity and desperation. In addition, some crimes, such as pickpocketing and car theft, specifically target tourists due to the temporary visitation opportunity. Crime is not distributed evenly throughout the city. Location matters, and some locations provide more opportunities for criminal activities.
Fort Lauderdale Police Response to High Crime Rate
A strong police presence makes some places in the city safer than others, and the Fort Lauderdale Police Department (FLPD) is addressing the Fort Lauderdale crime rate through increased patrols in high-risk areas, proactive investigations (including SWAT operations), and enhanced, technology-driven data reporting (NIBRS).
Following recent shootings, authorities have boosted police presence in nightlife districts, specifically the Himmarshee area and along Las Olas Boulevard, and are engaging in a public campaign to solicit tips regarding suspects. As police continue to combat the high crime rate, prosecutors will be actively working to pursue harsh penalties for those accused.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you need to hire a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer to handle your criminal defense case, The Kirlew Law Firm has years of dedicated legal service to apply to your situation, in addition to protecting your rights and helping you navigate complex laws. We can also work to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
We also understand the courts and the important deadlines and requirements they impose. Most Fort Lauderdale criminal cases go through the local Broward County Clerk of Courts. Even if you are completely unfamiliar with the court system, our experienced legal team can help you every step of the way when you hire a criminal defense lawyer at our firm.
Facing criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale can be a stressful experience, but you do not have to go through it alone. If you are facing charges, it is essential to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible so they can begin building your case. The sooner you have legal representation. The sooner you can lift an enormous burden off your shoulders, the better. At The Kirlew Law Firm, we have all your questions covered.
FAQs
Are Fort Lauderdale Beaches Safe?
Fort Lauderdale beaches are safe, offering a clean, family-friendly environment with lifeguards present in many areas. Safety is maintained through active beach patrol and, at times, strict regulations. Beaches are also safe for evening strolls, though some areas may have reduced lighting later at night, so walkers should be more cautious.
Is it Safe to Walk Around Fort Lauderdale at Night?
Walking around Fort Lauderdale is safe when in popular, well-lit tourist areas such as Las Olas Boulevard, downtown, and the beach. However, caution is advised in less crowded or unknown areas, as some parts of the city have higher rates of property crime and theft. It is safer to walk in well-lit areas with more people, though you should always be wary of pickpockets.
Which Is Safer, Fort Lauderdale or Miami?
It is a complicated comparison, but recent students often rank Fort Lauderdale as less safe than Miami overall, with reports highlighting high property crime and natural disaster risk, though Miami has higher violent crime rates per capita in some analyses, making it a mixed picture. Both cities have safer neighborhoods and areas with higher crime, but Fort Lauderdale ranks as less safe.
Which City Has the Highest Crime Rate in Florida?
Florida City is frequently cited as having the highest overall and violent crime rate in Florida, with 88 crimes per 1,000 residents and 2,290 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. Other cities with high crime volumes, particularly for violent crimes, include Jacksonville, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. Statistics can vary, and different factors and methods impact the outcome of each study.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Determining the Fort Lauderdale crime rate requires a careful analysis of recent statistics, and when you call The Kirlew Law Firm, you can expect us to know the latest trends in criminal law. When you need a lawyer who can help you understand complex criminal defense laws and handle your criminal case, contact us to schedule your free consultation today.
