Purcellville ranked as “Safest City” in Virginia

The Purcellville Police Department has announced that the Town of Purcellville was ranked the “Safest City” in Virginia for 2024 by SafeWise. Using the latest FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System data available, Purcellville received the number one ranking as the safest city in Virginia. 

Overall, Virginia was rated as one of the safest states in America, with the 9 th  lowest violent crime rate, and 17 th  in property crimes for the nation based on 2023 FBI NIBRS statistics. 

Purcellville’s low crime rate of 0.4 per 1,000 residents for violent crime, and 6.2 for property crime, moved Purcellville up one place, to take the top spot this year. 

The NIBRS program categorizes crime into two broad classifications: violent crimes and non-violent crimes. The FBI compiles violent crimes from four offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.

Violent crimes under the NIBRS program are offenses that involve force or threat of force. Property crime included the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The object of theft-type offense is the taking of money or property, but there is no force or threat against the victims.

The total number of crimes reported by each city was computed by adding the violent crimes and property crimes.  The crime rate was determined by the number of crimes per 1,000 population.

Purcellville Police Chief Cynthia McAlister said, “For those of us who live, work, or visit here, we have always known that Purcellville is a wonderful town, and the recognition as the “Safest City” in Virginia just reinforces what a great community we proudly serve. The dedication of our officers working together with residents, businesses, and other town staff members is reflected in this acknowledgment.”

The full report can be viewed at https://www.safewise.com/blog/safest-cities-virginia/#city1.