Florida’s overall crime is down according to state numbers released yesterday.
But a closer look at the underlying crime stats shows a disturbing uptick of a heinous sex crime.
Statewide, the number of reported rapes are up 8 percent for the first half of 2017.
According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement there were just over 4,000 rapes in the first half of the year, meaning more than 22 rapes every day, or almost one every hour.
Studies have shown that rapes are widely underreported, making it unclear to what extent the uptick in numbers is because rapes increased or the reporting of rapes has increased.
Keeping in mind that caveat, here’s a look at numbers reported by our local agencies
Our area shows mixed results:
- Palm Beach County up 4%
- St Lucie County up 38%
- Indian River County down 35%
- Martin County up 10%
- Okeechobee County up 56%
Area agencies that saw large increases from the first half of 2017 compared to the first half of 2016:
Fort Pierce’s reported rape cases jumped by 11, from 7 to 18.
Delray Beach saw its reported rapes double from 12 to 24.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office reported 29, up from 22 in the first half of last year.
The Okeechobee County Sheriff reported 14 rapes, compared to 8 last year.
Take a look at the graphic below to see how your agency compares.
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