For immediate releaseMarch 19, 2024
Media contact: Albert Lea Public Safety Director JD Carlson at 507-377-5665 or [email protected]
Albert Lea crime rate continues to decline
The Albert Lea Police Department reports that the local crime rate continues to decline with a decrease of 2 percent from 2022 to 2023, based on a statewide crime reporting system.
The overall rate decreased despite the reports of more serious crimes increasing by 11 percent. These types of crime include larceny-theft, burglary, motor vehicle theft and aggravated assault. That increase was offset by an 8 percent decrease in less serious types of crime that include vandalism, simple assaults, driving under the influence and fraud.
“Overall, the crime rate did decrease for the third year in a row. We continue to see positive results from excellent public safety services. The bottom line is that Albert Lea remains a very safe community,” said Director of Public Safety J.D. Carlson.
Larceny-theft, with 289 actual offenses, was the most-reported crime in 2023, followed by vandalism with 146 actual offenses.
Residents and businesses can help deter crime by locking their vehicles, not leaving valuables in vehicles, and parking vehicles inside garages or under streetlights. They should also install motion lights around their properties and call 911 if seeing anything suspicious.
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The mission of the Albert Lea Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in Albert Lea by providing excellent public safety services through leadership, integrity, and in collaborative partnerships with our community.