What Are the Top Five Crimes Committed in Tennessee?
While Tennessee is a lovely place to visit, live, and raise a family, it is not without its fair share of crime. Criminal activity happens everywhere, including throughout the state of Tennessee. “What are the top five crimes committed in Tennessee?” is an important question to ask. Understanding the various crimes that occur in the state may make it easier to avoid certain areas or to better understand what kind of legal help you need if you’re charged with a crime.
The Importance of a Strong Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of or charged with a crime in Tennessee, you may want to consider reaching out to a local criminal defense lawyer who can help you put together a strong defense strategy. Without an effective defense, it’s likely that you will lose your case and suffer serious legal consequences. If convicted, you will have a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life and impact your professional reputation and social life.
Felony and Misdemeanor Crime Statistics in Tennessee
According to 2025 statistical data collected by the Tennessee Department of Correction, there are around 26,000 inmates in prisons and correctional facilities throughout the state who are currently serving time for felony convictions. These crimes include homicide, kidnapping, sexual abuse, robbery, assault, and drug crimes. At the same time, according to a 2024 report, there are around 3,000 inmates currently serving time for misdemeanor convictions.
Information collected by Crime Insight reveals that the violent crime rate in Tennessee has gradually increased since 2022, with over 700 cases of murder, over 5,600 cases of sex offenses, and over 37,000 cases of aggravated assault reported in 2023 alone. If you are charged with a violent crime, you may be struggling with your mental health and worried about the outcome of your case. A local mental health support group, such as FindingMyRecovery, can help.
What Are the Top Five Crimes Committed in Tennessee?
The specific rate of certain crimes throughout Tennessee is constantly shifting. They vary by location and over time. While some areas of the state may have serious issues with vehicle theft, other areas may have a substantial problem with burglary. The general trends of the entire state, as of 2025, show the following as some of the most common crimes committed in the state:
- Simple Assault: Simple assault is often charged as a misdemeanor, as it typically does not involve real physical contact. A simple assault charge can be the outcome of a verbal altercation where threats were made and someone was fearful of physical harm. However, you may be charged even if nobody got physical.
- Destruction of Property: Property destruction can include acts of vandalism, graffiti, or damage to somebody’s private property. Depending on the level of damage inflicted on said property, the resulting legal consequences can be substantial.
- Shoplifting: Shoplifting is fairly common in most states. Depending on the value of the goods that were shoplifted, the penalties for this crime can range anywhere from minor misdemeanor charges to felony charges. It all depends on whether the goods that were stolen are valued at over or under $1,000.
- Burglary: Burglary is different from robbery. In an act of burglary, the alleged offender enters a building illegally with the intent to commit a crime. The charges you could face for burglary depend largely on the type of building you broke into and what was stolen, if anything.
- Aggravated Assault: Simple assault evolves into aggravated assault when there is a deadly weapon involved or if serious injury is inflicted upon the victim. If someone assaults a child, a law enforcement officer, or a first responder, the charges they face could be considerably worse.
FAQs About Crimes Committed in Tennessee
What Crime Is Committed the Most in Tennessee?
Generally, property crime, which involves the theft or destruction of someone else’s property, is committed most often in Tennessee. Many different crimes can fall under the umbrella of property crime, including motor vehicle theft, grand larceny, burglary, vandalism, and even arson. If you are charged with a property crime, contact a defense lawyer immediately.
Where Is the Highest Crime Rate in Tennessee?
The city that currently has the highest crime rate in Tennessee is Memphis. Memphis is particularly known for its high rate of violent crime. It ranks among the most dangerous cities in the entire country. Its crime rate as of 2025 is much higher than the state average, thanks in part to gang violence and easy highway access. While other Tennessee cities have high crime rates as well, they do not eclipse Memphis.
Why Does Tennessee Have Such a High Crime Rate?
There are many reasons why Tennessee has such a high crime rate. Largely, it’s due to a combination of important factors like considerably high poverty rates, ongoing economic disparity, and the prevalence of drug-related crimes such as gang violence. With significant population densities in major cities and a lack of employment opportunities, a high crime rate is more likely.
If I’m Charged With a Crime, Should I Hire a Lawyer?
Yes, you should always hire a lawyer to represent you whenever you are charged with a crime. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you determine the most effective way to move forward with your case and build a strong defense strategy. Without a defense, there’s a strong chance that you’ll lose to the prosecution.
Reach Out to an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer From The Law Office of Cesar Arbelaez
Recognizing the most frequently committed crimes in the state can better prepare you for your own defense if you are charged with one of these crimes. Your first move should be to contact an experienced defense lawyer who can help you through your case and ensure you aren’t taken advantage of.
At The Law Office of Cesar Arbelaez, we can prepare your defense and make sure your case is strong. Contact us to speak to a member of our team about how we can help.
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