Understanding North Carolina’s felony trends and statistics can offer valuable perspective and insight. The latest annual report from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), released in October 2024, sheds light on key trends and statistics that can help you understand what’s happening in the state and which charges prosecutors pursue most aggressively.
An Overview of Crime in North Carolina
According to the 2023 Crime in North Carolina Annual Summary Report, the overall rate of Crime Index offenses increased by 2.3 percent compared to 2022. Crime Index offenses include violent crimes (including murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault) and property crimes (burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft). However, the story is more nuanced when you individually review each category.
Violent Crime
The overall violent crime rate saw a slight decrease of 0.1 percent statewide in 2023. However, this category has some telling contrasts:
- Murder increased slightly by 0.3 percent
- Rape decreased significantly by 8.1 percent
- Robbery dropped 1.9 percent
- Aggravated assault rose by 1.1 percent
These figures indicate that some violent offenses are trending downward. Others, particularly aggravated assaults and homicides, remain a serious concern throughout the state. These statistics may impact how charges are prosecuted or prioritized by district attorneys.
Property Crime
Property crime, which encompasses burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, increased 2.8 percent in 2023. However, much of that growth was driven by a 38.4 percent surge in motor vehicle theft – a massive increase compared to 2022. In contrast, burglary decreased by 4.3 percent and larceny rose by only 0.4 percent.
That means that motor vehicle theft is now one of the fastest-growing categories of crime in the state. Trends like these typically lead to heightened enforcement efforts – and stiffer penalties for anyone charged with felony auto theft.
Youth Arrests on the Rise
One of the most noteworthy trends is the rise in juvenile felony arrests. Juvenile arrests for Crime Index offenses rose by a staggering 35 percent. Property crime arrests for people under 18 surged 52 percent, while violent crime arrests dropped slightly by 3 percent. In contrast, adult arrests for Crime Index offenses decreased 5 percent overall.
These statistics suggest a growing focus on youth crime, particularly theft-related offenses. Early legal intervention is critical for any minor facing felony charges.
What Counts as a Felony in North Carolina?
North Carolina felonies are categorized from Class A (the most serious) to Class I (the least serious). Felony charges include crimes such as:
- First- and second-degree murder
- Sexual assault and rape
- Armed robbery
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
- Burglary involving a weapon or serious injury
- Motor vehicle theft
Penalties for felony convictions may include years or even life in prison. If convicted, you may also face substantial fines, probation, and the long-term consequences of a criminal record. A felony conviction often affects your employment and housing opportunities – and for juveniles, a conviction can affect college admissions, financial aid, and scholarships. You may lose your professional licenses, and non-citizens may experience immigration consequences. The fallout can affect your life for years after serving your sentence.
Felony Trends and the Importance of Local Advocacy
The 2023 crime report makes one thing clear: while overall trends are shifting, North Carolina law enforcement and prosecutors are still actively pursuing felony cases, especially those involving violence and property theft.
Crime statistics offer a helpful overview of what’s happening throughout the state, but each case is unique. The difference between a prison sentence and a second chance often depends on your legal team’s skill and commitment.
Talk to an Experienced North Carolina Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you or someone you know is under investigation or has been charged with a felony, you need legal guidance from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer. Reach out to Greene Wilson & Styron for a consultation. We’re here to help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and fight for the best possible outcome. Call us today to learn more about North Carolina felony charges and how we can defend you.