Like most cities, Salem has a crime rate that continues to present concerns for many who spend time here. While the rate of violent crime in Salem is generally lower than rates found in comparable urban areas, the number of property crimes in Salem is higher than the national average. And both the violent crime and property crime rates are high enough to warrant increased action in the areas of prevention, observation and reporting. Residents, business owners and visitors can all play an important role in providing valuable information to one another and to local law enforcement. Together, we can send the message that criminal activity has no place in Salem.

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Research clearly shows that active community crime watch organizations have a positive impact on crime reduction, especially if they remain active over long periods of time. Established crime watch organizations result in stronger community connections, shared visions for a safer community, healthier relationships between police officers and those whom they protect, and, subsequently, a meaningful reduction in local crime activity. For more on these critical connections, click here.