Violent crime victimization fell 25% in 2025, DOJ survey shows

What happened: A preliminary National Crime Victimization Survey released Monday found the violent crime victimization rate fell about 25% in 2025 versus the prior year, a drop the Justice Department called the largest since 1973. Key numbers: 669,000 fewer violent crimes excluding simple assaults; Why it matters: The preliminary results bolster earlier FBI data showing violent crime fell in 2025 with the murder rate at a 20-year low. The White House released the FBI findings ahead of a campaign event, and Trump and his allies have sought to capitalize on the decline ahead of the midterms.

A preliminary National Crime Victimization Survey released Monday found the violent crime victimization rate fell about 25% in 2025 versus the prior year, a drop the Justice Department called the largest since 1973.

The preliminary results bolster earlier FBI data showing violent crime fell in 2025 with the murder rate at a 20-year low. The White House released the FBI findings ahead of a campaign event, and Trump and his allies have sought to capitalize on the decline ahead of the midterms.