The volume and severity of police-reported crime increased by 2% in 2023, marking the third consecutive year of rising crime levels, according to a recent report by Statistics Canada. This upward trend was driven primarily by significant changes in non-violent crime, while violent crime rates remained relatively stable.
The Non-violent CSI experienced notable changes due to increases in specific crime types. Among the non-violent offences, child pornography cases surged by 52%, while incidents of fraud rose by 12%. Shoplifting incidents involving items valued at $5,000 or less increased by 18%, and motor vehicle thefts climbed by 5%. Conversely, the rate of breaking and entering offences saw a 5% decline.
In 2023, Canada reported 778 homicide victims, a decrease of 104 compared to the previous year. Gang-related homicides continued to constitute about one-quarter (22%) of all homicides, with 78% of these crimes involving firearms, predominantly handguns. The report also highlighted a significant gender disparity in spousal or intimate partner homicides, with women being approximately five times more likely to be killed by their partners compared to men (31% versus 6%).
The number of police-reported hate crime incidents rose sharply by 32% in 2023. Crimes targeting religion or sexual orientation were the primary contributors to this increase, reflecting a concerning trend in hate-motivated offences across the country.
The change in the CSI varied significantly across provinces and territories. Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and the Northwest Territories saw notable increases of 5%, 17%, and 5%, respectively. Conversely, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Alberta experienced slight decreases in their CSI values.
Among census metropolitan areas, Chilliwack, B.C., and Abbotsford-Mission, B.C., recorded the largest increases in the CSI, with rises of 24% and 23%, respectively. On the other hand, London, Ont., and Red Deer, Alta., saw the most substantial declines, with decreases of 14% and 11%, respectively.
The continued rise in the Crime Severity Index underscores the shifting landscape of crime in Canada. While certain non-violent crimes have surged, violent crime rates have remained relatively stable. The increase in hate crimes and regional variations in crime severity highlight the complex and evolving nature of criminal activity across the nation.