Plano Is Really, Really Safe: Police Department Sees Historic Crime Rate Decrease

City of Excellence — and Safety. Photo: City of Plano

Plano is a vibrant city that offers everything from beautiful parks to coveted neighborhoods, making it a beloved place to call home. What's even better? It keeps getting safer.

The Plano Police Department recently revealed an impressive drop in crime rates across the community in recent years. According to data from the department's crime analysis unit, there has been a steady decline in both violent and property crimes, marking a substantial reduction in various offenses. 

Crime Decreases City-Wide

Recent data from the department shows a continued decline in both violent and property crime rates. In 2024, the major crime rate per 1,000 people dropped by 11.1%, reaching a new low of 16.10 —  the lowest since the department began tracking data in 1993. 

  • Violent crime saw reductions across all categories except aggravated assault, resulting in a rate of 1.55 per 1,000, down slightly from 1.58 in 2015. 
  • Property crime, which covers burglary, larceny and motor vehicle theft, dropped by 11.9%, with a rate of 14.55 per 1,000 — the lowest in over three decades.

“As we continue to build on this success, we remain committed to enhancing public safety and ensuring the well-being of our community,” Plano Police said in an official statement. “Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation in making our neighborhoods safer places to live, work and thrive.”

How Crime Decreased 

The Plano Police Department identified several factors contributing to the decrease in the city's crime rate and making the city even better. Proactive investigations, supported by advancements in technology from the criminal investigative services division, have improved suspect identification, resulting in more successful arrests. 

The growing presence of cameras and surveillance devices in residential areas, businesses and throughout the city has also enhanced the success of investigations. The department’s collaboration with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and prosecutors has also played a key role in ensuring successful prosecutions and keeping dangerous folks off the street.

(Plus, in 2024, the police department even rescued a lost cow. Now that’s what I call great police work!)

A Plano police officer tries not to make any sudden moo-vements. Photo: Plano Police Department

Plano Is Among The Safest City’s In The US

As Local Profile previously reported, a 2023 report from financial technology company SmartAsset recognized three North Texas cities as some of the safest in the United States, including Plano. Frisco earned the top spot as the safest city in the country, with McKinney securing second place and Plano coming in at a close fifth. 

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