This data, reported through the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), provides a comprehensive look at public safety trends in Ventura. This detailed reporting allows for a more granular analysis of how crime impacts the community and where resources are most effectively deployed.
While overall crime is down, Crimes Against Persons saw a 12.7% increase, primarily driven by a rise in Simple Assaults (+18.3%) and Intimidation (+15.1%). Simple Assaults increased from 857 in 2024 to 1,014 in 2025, a jump of 157 incidents. Of these, 89 involved resisting or battering officers (148(A)(1) and 243(B)) and 54 were related to domestic violence. While the numbers show an increase, this does not reflect a higher risk to the public, as many incidents occurred in private settings or involve law enforcement interactions that are difficult to predict or prevent. Conversely, the city saw a significant 66.7% reduction in Murder, dropping from 3 in 2024 to 1 in 2025.
Property crime saw the most substantial numerical decline, with 673 fewer incidents than in 2024, a 16.4% decrease overall. This category, which often impacts the daily quality of life for residents and businesses, showed significant improvement across several key areas:
- Motor Vehicle Theft saw the most dramatic decline at 37.1%, representing 85 fewer stolen vehicles compared to the previous year.
- Shoplifting dropped significantly by 35.1%, following a year of increased organized retail theft enforcement and enhanced community partnerships.
- Robbery also experienced a notable 27.3% decrease, falling from 88 incidents in 2024 to 64 in 2025.
While traditional property crimes trended downward, the Department did see an uptick in fraud-related reports. Specifically, Identity Theft rose by 48 incidents, increasing from 58 in 2024 to 106 in 2025. This highlights the importance of residents remaining vigilant with personal information even as physical thefts across the city decline.
The Crimes Against Society category, which largely tracks data primarily related to proactive enforcement and arrests, saw a 21.7% decrease. Drug and Narcotic violations decreased by over 21%, while Weapon Law violations saw a slight reduction of 7.1%.
This 12.3% decrease in overall crime reflects the continued implementation of the Department’s community-partnered policing model, supported by a dedicated team of approximately 250 sworn officers, professional staff, cadets, and volunteers.
“Public safety is a shared responsibility, and these results are a testament to the strong partnership between our officers and the community we serve,” said Chief David Dickey. “While the data shows we are moving in the right direction, our work is never finished. We will continue to adapt our strategies and remain proactive in ensuring that every resident feels safe in their neighborhood, on our roads, in local businesses, and while enjoying public spaces.”
In 2025, the Ventura Police Department also participated in over 190 community events. These interactions, ranging from various community and crime prevention meetings to school visits, foster continued two-way communication and align department strategies with the needs of the community.
The Ventura Police Department remains committed to transparency. Community members are encouraged to stay informed by following official social media platforms and exploring the interactive calls for service and crime maps online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/CrimeMap.
