Manipulating Crime Statistics: How Widespread Is the Problem?

And the need for better police leaders

Last year I penned a piece about how crime statistics can be misleading. The main components addressed were gaps in federal reporting, officers making fewer arrests, fewer citizens reporting crime, and cracks in the federal reporting system that allow, for example, an agency to report a rape and a murder as just a murder. I recommend this astute article by

Keith Graves

for additional insights.

I also touched upon on how some police agencies may be down charging crimes. With the exception of sparse investigative reports, like 2014 findings that the LAPD had misclassified nearly 1,200 violent crimes between 2012 and 2013, there has been little evidence to substantiate claims that this practice is occurring.

Until now.

A whistleblower within the Metro Police Department in D.C. recently came forward, alleging to the House Oversight Committee that crime data was indeed being manipulated.

The National News Desk reports that this person:

“provided the Committee with information related to allegations that crime statistics were manipulated on a widespread basis and at the direction of supervisory officials within MPD."

The natural reaction to this news: How widespread is this practice in cities across the country? Because yes, we have a right to know.

Aside from being unethical as heck, manipulating crime statistics has far-reaching implications. It erodes the trust that the public has in its law enforcement and yes, it makes it that much more difficult for those of us who do advocate for police. For every little scrap of hard-fought progress we make, we’re forced to take 10 steps backwards when stories like these surface.

Presenting an incomplete picture of the health of a city gives the citizenry a false sense of security, and makes it tougher to craft policies and create police budgets that truly benefit communities.

And it’s a slap in the face to crime victims, whose lives are upended because of vicious attacks. One of these is Anna Giaritelli, who writes that although she was assaulted in broad daylight in D.C., the crime was not properly documented. Imagine being violently attacked then discovering that the officials tasked with protecting you haven’t even mapped the crime? How many Anna Giaritellis are out there?

It also insults the intelligence of the citizenry, who are so often told not to believe our lying eyes.

Decisions begin at the top with police leadership, who often take their directives from city officials. The harm that can be done at this level when left in incapable, weak hands, is incalculable.

Apart from the factors mentioned above, manipulating crime data, especially if it’s done to align with a political narrative, feels like a betrayal. How can we trust a police leader who seemingly places politics or career aspirations before that sacred oath and the U.S. Constitution?

Plus, faulty decisions made at the top unfortunately trickle down to the men and women on the front lines. Though it may be unfair, people will judge all cops based on the decisions made by a few at the higher levels.

Demonstrating moral courage and doing what’s right can be lonely and intimidating. It is, however, precisely what we need to see more of in our police leaders. Those who do opt to stand up as true servant-leaders will garner more public respect than I think they may realize.

Heavy workload here, so this article is short. To understand what real police leadership looks like, subscribe to Courageous Leadership (right here on Substack) by

Travis Yates

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For the Blue is a solutions-based initiative. I’m just an American patriot asking questions. I don’t work with any political party and I answer to nobody. For me, the health of the nation, due process (including for police officers), the rule of law, and respect for individual liberties, will always transcend party affiliation. I welcome your thoughts, even if you disagree; though personal attacks will be ignored. You can reach me at fortheblue@substack.com.