Special to Iredell Free News

The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office is reporting a significant reduction in crime in the latest annual crime report.

Each year the N.C. State Bureau of Investigations (NCSBI) gathers crime statistics from law enforcement agencies across the state and produces the annual Uniform Crime Report (UCR). While the primary objective is for statistics to be used in research and planning, some look to the Uniform Crime Report (UCR) as a report card for law enforcement agencies. In addition, the UCR data have become social indicators and can be used when deciding where to live. The data provided by the NCSBI is one calendar year behind.

The overall Crime Index Rate, which includes Murder, Rape, Robbery, Aggravate Assault, Burglary, Larceny, and Larceny of a Motor Vehicle, decreased by 53 percent from 2014 through 2021.

Sheriff Darren Campbell, who was first elected in 2014 and is unopposed for a third term in November’s general election, said he has prioritized efforts to keep residents safe, decrease crime, and make Iredell County the best place to live and raise a family.

The Index Crime Rate is then broken down further into two subcategories: Violent Crime and Property Crime.

The Violent Crime Rate includes Murder, Rape, Robbery, and Aggravated Assault. The Property Crime Rate includes Burglary, Larceny, and Motor Vehicle Theft. Compared to the previous seven years, the Violent Crime Rate has decreased by 26 percent, while the Property Crime Rate also shows a 52 percent decrease.

The ICSO has achieved these numbers through proactive enforcement. Employing aggressive patrol techniques, having investigators who work cases promptly, and having specialized units that utilize specific skill sets and equipment have all contributed to the reduction in crime.

According to the NCSBI, of the ten most populous counties in North Carolina that have reported 12 months of crime data, Iredell County had the lowest total number of Index Crime reported.