Financial Crime World

Costa Rica’s Financial Crime Data Analysis Reveals Mixed Picture of Safety and Security Situation

A recent analysis of Costa Rica’s crime statistics has shed light on the country’s safety and security situation, painting a mixed picture that reveals both concerning indicators and positive trends.

Crime Index and Safety Index

According to data from 2020, Costa Rica’s crime index stood at 50.88, while its safety index was 49.12. This indicates that there are both areas of concern and areas where the country is performing well in terms of safety and security.

Homicide Rate and Reported Crimes

The country’s homicide rate in 2019 was 11.03 per 100,000 inhabitants, with a total of 176 reported homicides between January and April 2020. Additionally, reported cases of robbery with violence stood at 2,265 as of December 2020.

Property Crimes and Incarceration Rate

Property crimes decreased by 16% in 2020 compared to the previous year, with 7,033 burglaries reported. The incarceration rate in Costa Rica is 341 per 100,000 citizens.

Global Peace Index Ranking and Assault Victims

Costa Rica ranked 82 out of 163 in the Global Peace Index 2021, and the rate of assault victims was 4.5% in 2020, down from 6.1% in 2019. Reported cases of domestic violence decreased by 18% in 2020.

Regional Crime Rates

The Central Pacific region in Costa Rica reports the highest crime rates, while San José is the city with the highest number of crimes reported. There was a 29% decrease in thefts from 2019 to 2020.

Drug Offenses and Overall Crime Rate

Drug offenses are on the increase, with 2,589 cases reported in 2019. Around 605 out of every 100,000 citizens are victims of a crime per year in Costa Rica.

While there have been concerning indicators, such as the homicide rate and reported cases of violent crimes, there have also been positive trends, including decreases in property crimes and thefts from year to year. Costa Rica’s ranking in the Global Peace Index and the reduction in certain types of crimes like domestic violence demonstrate efforts towards improving public safety.

However, challenges remain, particularly in regions with higher crime rates, and addressing issues such as drug offenses will be critical in ensuring a safer environment for citizens and visitors alike.