The early 1980s saw rising crime as the crack cocaine epidemic began taking hold in major cities. The "War on Drugs" was escalating, and prison populations were growing rapidly.
Population
229,465,714
Violent Crime Rate
593.5
-0.5% YoY
Murder Rate
9.8
-4.0% YoY
Property Crime Rate
5256.5
-1.8% YoY
Compared to 1991 peak: Violent crime rate 22% lower · Murder rate 0% higher
Notable Events in 1981
- •Reagan assassination attempt
- •First year of "War on Drugs" escalation
- •Sandra Day O'Connor joins Supreme Court
Violent Crime Breakdown
| Offense | Total | Rate per 100K | % of Violent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Violent Crime | 1,361,820 | 593.5 | 100% |
| Aggravated Assault | 663,900 | 289.3 | 48.8% |
| Robbery | 592,910 | 258.4 | 43.5% |
| Rape | 82,500 | 36.0 | 6.1% |
| Murder | 22,520 | 9.8 | 1.7% |
Property Crime Breakdown
| Offense | Total | Rate per 100K | % of Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Property Crime | 12,061,900 | 5256.5 | 100% |
| Larceny-Theft | 7,194,400 | 3135.3 | 59.6% |
| Burglary | 3,779,700 | 1647.2 | 31.3% |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 1,087,800 | 474.1 | 9.0% |
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer, 1981 national estimates.