Crime rates are a problem in every city. In recent years, crime rates have gone down in the majority of cities, and Cincinnati is no different. WRKC, a local station for community news, reported that “overall, crime in the city is continuing its downward slide, falling-off another 6% from 2018.”

Rape had its biggest drop, 10 percent fewer cases this year compared to last. Robberies also dropped, 6 percent fewer in 2019 than 2018. Moreover, “crimes against children saw a huge drop this year. Everything from Disseminating Matter Harmful to Children, to Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor — altogether down 24%.”

However, despite some violent crime rates decreasing, the majority still rose. Aggravated assaults rose 2 percent this year; homicides were up this year as well homicides became more common, especially among teens. A 14-year-old in Over-The-Rine was killed due to a shooting on August 21st. “Overall, homicides up 11% — 72 so far in 2019, getting dangerously close to our recent record in 2017 of 74 homicides.”

Domestic violence also went up. There was an 8 percent increase, from 1716 to 1866. As the numbers go up, we need to spread awareness to prevent this number from growing in the future. Women and men need to know how to protect themselves against sexual offenders. Alcohol or drugs are usually factors in sexual assault cases, so it is always best to avoid them, especially during parties.

Our community needs to be aware that crime rates of violent crimes are increasing. Violent crimes are the ones that hurt people physically, causing serious injuries or deaths. It is never the victims’ fault, and the victim can be any of us, which brings the importance of awareness and protection.