What does this measure?

This indicator shows the number of reported serious violent crimes per 10,000 residents. Murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault are included in the serious violent crimes measure.

Why is this important?

Crime affects the quality of life of those who directly experience and witness it, but it also impacts the lives of others within the community, housing stability, and a community's attractiveness as a place to live, work and do business.

How are Cayuga and Seneca counties performing?

In 2010, Cayuga’s violent crime rate was 20 and Seneca’s was 15, both below the state (excluding NYC) rate of 24 and the national rate of 40. Cayuga’s rate of violent crime has hovered around 20 and was down 8% in 2010 compared to 2000. Seneca’s rate has increased through much of the decade, ending almost 60% higher in 2010 than it was in 2000. By comparison, state and national rates both declined, 7% and 20%, respectively. Auburn and Waterloo both had higher rates of violent crimes than their home counties.

Notes about the data

Crime reports are never complete because some crimes, such as rape and assault, are believed to be underreported.