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Lethbridge had the third highest Crime Severity Index in the country in 2022, after ranking first in 2021. (File photo: LNN)

Lethbridge had third-highest Crime Severity Index in Canada in 2022

Jul 27, 2023 | 4:02 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Statistics Canada has released the results of the Crime Severity Index (CSI) for 2022, and Lethbridge has shown some favourable trends.

The numbers showed that Lethbridge had the third highest CSI in the country in 2022, which includes all metropolitan areas with 100,000 or more people. Lethbridge was at the top of the list in 2021.

CSI scores take into account both the number of overall incidents reported to police throughout the year and how serious those incidents are.

READ MORE: Lethbridge ranked #1 in Canada on Crime Severity Index in 2021

Lethbridge Police Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh explained that Lethbridge’s CSI decreased by eight per cent in 2022 compared to 2021, which represents a five per cent drop in crime in Lethbridge.

Mehdizadeh said, “I am very proud to call this community my home, as we are moving certainly into a good direction.”

Mehidzadeh further added that Lethbridge ranks sixth for violent crimes and second in non-violent crimes. He explained that the non-violent crimes, such as break and enters, contribute to the rise in the CSI.

Statistics Canada also reported an increase in cybercrime in Lethbridge, with 637 reported incidents in 2022, 135 more than the previous year.

Lethbridge mayor Blaine Hyggen echoed Mehdizadeh’s optimism for the city.

Hyggen said, “Is there more that we can do? Absolutely, but we need to celebrate those wins. When we have something that comes in and states that we’re the safest community in Canada, we need to celebrate that.”

Hyggen said he also supports the hard work of the Lethbridge Police Service, but hopes to see changes to the judicial system.

Statistics Canada’s numbers show that Alberta’s CSI as a whole increased 1.92 per cent from 2021, to give it a CSI of 103.21. The full statistics are available at the Statistics Canada website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge ranked #1 in Canada on Crime Severity Index in 2021

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