Top 7 Most Common Crimes in the United States



It’s a myth that only war-torn countries with unruly governments and unstable economies endure a lot of criminal activity. The so-called developed world also has its fair share of crime, and the USA isn’t any exception. Global Peace Index in its statistics collected in 2021 states that the US ranks 117th on the list of safe countries. 


Though a few crimes are more serious than others, there are some common crimes in the liberal land which is also the home of the brave. That’s why, in this article, we’ve identified the 7 most common crimes and what to do for criminal defense in Anaheim if you’ve been convicted of any of these crimes. 


  1. 1. Theft and Larceny 


According to the latest data, theft and larceny comprised 60% of all crimes committed in the US. With 4.6 million cases in the pandemic year 2020 only, this crime is by far the most common in America. 

Theft and larceny mostly include all sorts of stealing, shoplifting, or pick-pocketing. The sentencing may lead to up to seven years of imprisonment. 


  1. 2. Property Crime 


Another of the commonest crimes in the United States is property crime. Though multiple types of crime fall under this category, under this umbrella far too many crimes are committed. Property crime includes theft and destruction of property without the use of force or threat against a victim. 


  1. 3. Robbery 


Robbery is a leading crime in the United States. This is not a crime like theft that doesn’t include any violence. Usually, robbery includes violence as it is performed on a person or in a place involving a victim. Robbery involves the use of force to get the money or items demanded. 


Compared to theft, it's a more serious crime due to the violent aspect. That’s why robbery has a maximum sentence of life. 


  1. 4. Burglary 


One of the most frequently committed crimes in the US is burglary. This crime includes trespassing on private property with the purpose of stealing, or to inflict damage on the property, or cause bodily harm to a person.  

Burglary may occur anywhere. The maximum sentencing for burglary could be almost ten years. 


  1. 5. Murder 


No crime garners more national attention compared to murder. This crime is thought-out and intentional. In the USA, the murder rate in 2018 was 5 per 100,000. So, there were more than 15,000 murders in that year only. 


  1. 6. Sexual Assault 


Unfortunately, sexual assault is another common crime in the United States. A few crimes that are considered sexual assault are as follows: 


  • Sexual harassment  
  • Marital rape  
  • Anal or oral sex against one’s will  
  • Rape or intercourse without consent 
  • Sexual contact with an underage person 
  • Child pornography possession 
  • Nonconsensual touching 
  • Using an object to force penetration on someone 
  • Incest 


Many other acts would be considered sexual assault crimes. 


  1. 7. Drug Possession 


Possession of illegal drugs has become common in several states in America. This includes heroin, cocaine, meth, and other illegal narcotics. In the year 2007 alone, there were more than 1.8 million people arrested for crimes related to drug possession. 


Conclusion 


The list could have been longer if we start analyzing common crimes in the United States and their nature. If you’re charged with any of these crimes then it may lead to severe penalties and harsher punishment without the right legal representation by the best lawyer in California. Getting legal help will help you save your future. 

  

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