Des Moines County Crime & Safety

Des Moines County, Iowa

Safety Score

4/100

Higher = safer

Safety Rating

High Crime

Total Crime Rate

3809.5

per 100K population

Crime Statistics

Violent Crime Rate

440.4

per 100K population

National avg 380.7

Property Crime Rate

3369.1

per 100K population

National avg 1954.4

Safety Score

4/100

Higher = safer

State avg 60/100

State Safety Rank

#98

of 99 counties (1 = safest)

Data Story

About Crime & Safety in Des Moines County, Iowa

High Activity in Des Moines County

Des Moines County has a safety score of 94.0 and a total crime rate of 3809.5 per 100K. This is significantly higher than the national crime rate of 2385.5.

Exceeding Statewide Crime Averages

The local crime rate is more than triple the Iowa average of 1095.3 per 100K. This places the county's safety score below the Iowa average of 98.3.

Active Law Enforcement Response

Four reporting agencies manage a high volume of calls compared to adjacent rural counties. This region experiences much more frequent law enforcement activity than its quieter neighbors.

Analyzing Property Crime Trends

Property crime is the primary issue at 3369.1 incidents per 100K, while violent crime sits at 440.4. Theft and burglary drive the vast majority of local safety statistics.

Enhancing Home Security Measures

Due to higher property crime rates, residents should consider comprehensive security systems. Visible cameras and alarm systems are highly effective deterrents in areas with more frequent theft.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the crime rate in Des Moines County, IA?

Des Moines County has a total crime rate of 3809.5 per 100,000 residents, based on FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data. This includes both violent crimes (440.4 per 100K) and property crimes (3369.1 per 100K).

Is Des Moines County, IA safe?

Des Moines County has a safety score of 4/100, rated "High Crime". A higher safety score indicates lower crime rates relative to other counties nationwide. It ranks #98 out of 99 counties in Iowa for safety (1 = safest).

How does Des Moines County crime compare to the Iowa average?

The local crime rate is more than triple the Iowa average of 1095.3 per 100K. This places the county's safety score below the Iowa average of 98.3.

What types of crime are most common in Des Moines County?

Property crime is the primary issue at 3369.1 incidents per 100K, while violent crime sits at 440.4. Theft and burglary drive the vast majority of local safety statistics.

How is crime data measured and reported for Des Moines County?

Crime data for Des Moines County comes from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. Local law enforcement agencies submit data on violent crimes (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault) and property crimes (burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft) to the FBI. Rates are calculated per 100,000 residents to allow fair comparison between counties of different sizes. The safety score (0-100) is derived from these rates, with higher scores indicating safer counties.

What is being done about crime in Des Moines County?

Des Moines County has a safety score of 4/100, which is below the Iowa average of 60/100. Many counties with above-average crime rates invest in community policing, crime prevention programs, neighborhood watch initiatives, and social services aimed at reducing crime over time.