Watch CBS News

Irvine Records Lowest Violent Crime Rate Nationwide, Data Shows

IRVINE (CBSLA.com) — Irvine has recorded the lowest violent crime rate nationwide as compared with other cities that have more than 100,000 residents, police announced Monday.

"I am very pleased that Irvine remains the Safest City in America within our category," Irvine Mayor Steven S. Choi said. "We are now a City of more than 250,000 residents. As we become bigger, we remain safe."

Irvine, according to its police department, also recorded its lowest rate in crime in its history for Part 1 crimes.

Those include the following offenses: murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny-theft, auto theft and arson.

"This is fantastic news! I am grateful for the members of our Department who work tirelessly every day (and night) in order to keep our community safe," Irvine Police Chief Dave Maggard said.

The statistics are from annual data released by the FBI on crime nationwide for 2014.

The data showed that the number of violent crimes reported last year across the U.S. dropped by 0.2 percent and property crimes dropped 4.3 percent as compared to 2013, according to the Associated Press.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.