Sterling Heights has once again emerged as the safest large city in Michigan for 2023, according to recent figures from the Department of Justice's National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). The city, with a population surpassing 100,000, has been recognized for its particularly low rates of both violent and property crimes amongst similar-sized communities in the state. Details sourced from the City of Sterling Heights indicate a downward trend, with violent crimes falling by 19% and property crimes by 4% compared to the previous year.
As per the City of Sterling Heights, Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor expressed pride not only in the city's statistical achievements but also in the bond between the community and the police force that fosters these outcomes. "Sterling Heights isn’t just a city on a map; we set the standard," said Mayor Taylor. "And being named Michigan’s safest big city year after year isn’t just a badge of honor or an achievement that’s only about the numbers. It’s a testament to our dedicated community and police department that work together to cultivate the strong sense of safety and wellbeing we enjoy."
The latest crime statistics show Sterling Heights with 210 violent crimes in a year, which is significantly lower compared to other Michigan cities with populations over 100,000 - 51% lower than Dearborn, 69% lower than Ann Arbor, and 255% lower than Warren. Property crime rates were equally favorable. With 2,522 incidents, Ann Arbor's rates were 28% higher, Dearborn’s 35%, and Warren’s a stark 67% higher.
Contributing factors to the city's successful crime prevention efforts include the Sterling Heights Police Department's (SHPD) various initiatives. Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski mentioned in an interview, as per the City of Sterling Heights, "I couldn’t be any prouder of the men and women of this department that work 24/7 to protect all our residents, business owners and visitors," Chief Dwojakowski said. "The partnership with our residents is second to none and has helped drive down crime year after year. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support from our elected officials and city administration."
