Why Calgary Can’t Stop Talking About Crime in 2025

Hey Calgary! Crime is the topic dominating this election season, but the statistics tell a fascinating story—and reveal why you feel the way you do.
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According to the latest data from the Calgary Police Service (CPS) dashboard, overall crime rates—driven by significant drops in property incidents like break-ins and vehicle theft—are actually trending below the five-year average. That’s the statistical good news!
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So, what’s driving the panic that has mayoral and council candidates promising hundreds of new police officers?
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The disconnect lies in what the data doesn’t capture: the day-to-day feeling of safety in our public spaces. While overall numbers are down, highly visible issues are spiking:
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Visible Disorder: Calls related to "unwanted guests" and "disturbances" in the downtown core and on the transit system remain chronically high, directly linked to Calgary’s affordability, homelessness, and addiction crises.
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Violent Crime Pockets: Incidents like assaults and street robberies are seeing upticks in some areas, shifting the public perception from one of economic crime to one of personal vulnerability.
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This disparity—steady overall numbers versus rising visible distress—has made Public Safety a non-negotiable priority for voters, sitting right next to affordability and infrastructure maintenance .
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As of October 16th, the election buzz highlights that this isn't just a political talking point—it’s a call for effective, compassionate management of social disorder. Candidates are now being judged on their ability to connect the dots between policing, mental health services, and homelessness.
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Keep an eye on the polls, Calgary—your vote is the ultimate measure of whether the next City Hall focuses on fixing the statistics or solving the sentiment on our streets.