Nuisance crimes fell nearly 15% last year in Alexandria, and it’s largely due to the decriminalization of marijuana and the COVID-19 pandemic, according to police.
On Friday, the Alexandria Police Department released its stats on Nuisance crimes, which are “unreasonable and unlawful use of property, which causes inconvenience or damage to others.” They include destruction of property/vandalism incidents, drug offenses and disorderly conduct.
“The Covid-19 pandemic and the decriminalization of marijuana impacted nuisance crimes in 2020,” said Police Chief Michael Brown in a statement. “Nightlife activities were largely shutdown or restricted starting in mid-March, which impacted nuisance crimes involving alcohol.”
Earlier this month, police also revealed a 19% increase in Part 1 crime (crimes against people) in 2020 versus 2019.
As for Nuisance crimes, there was a 28% increase in destruction of property/vandalism calls for service, while public drunkenness fell 28%, driving under the influence fell nearly 40%, and liquor law violations dropped 54%.
There was also a 38% decline in drug and narcotic offenses. Marijuana was decriminalized last July, and since then anyone caught with up to once ounce is issued a $25 civil fine.
Below are the 2020 and 2019 Nuisance crime stats for Alexandria:
