Long Beach, Glen Cove, Hempstead. All beautiful towns that attract thousands of tourists each year. But like any community — even those packed with suburban charm — the county faces its share of crime. Whether you’re a resident or a business owner, understanding local crime trends is important when trying to stay informed and prepared. What are the Nassau County, NY, crime rates, and what do they mean for the community?
Crime Hotspots in Nassau County
While Nassau County is generally considered a safe place to live, some areas experience higher crime rates than others. Areas like Hempstead, Long Beach, and Freeport are known to report higher incidences of property and violent crimes due to their denser populations.
According to the Nassau County Police Department’s Crime Analysis Unit, Hempstead reports an average of 2,000 crimes per year. As the largest village in Nassau County, Hempstead has seen ongoing efforts to reduce crime, including increased police patrols and community engagement programs.
These law enforcement efforts have also borne fruit in places like Long Beach, a popular tourist destination, where we’ve seen significant decreases in robberies, burglaries, and thefts. Thanks to collaboration with the NCPD, municipalities have been able to tackle these issues to make Nassau County a safer place to live, and visit. If you or someone you know is facing charges in these areas, a criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights and build a solid defense.
Crime Statistics and Trends
According to data compiled by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), the overall crime rate in Nassau County showed a decline from 2015 to 2019, with a 21% decrease. It’s important to note that all categories, including murder, rape, assault, robbery, burglary, and larceny showed decreasing rates.
However, property crimes remain a significant issue in Nassau County. According to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, larceny-theft and burglary are the most commonly reported offenses, and they saw a slight increase across the eight different Nassau County precincts in 2024.
That said, despite the upward trend in property crimes, violent crimes like murder remain relatively low in comparison to larger urban areas, and in 2022, the county saw a 75% decrease in homicides.
Factors Contributing to Crime in Nassau County
Several factors contribute to crime rates in Nassau County, ranging from socioeconomic conditions to broader societal trends. Issues like unemployment, substance abuse, and gang-related activities have been linked to certain crimes. For example, Nassau County has seen increases in drug-related offenses, particularly heroin and opioid-related crimes, which are often tied to property crimes like theft and burglary.
According to the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), Nassau County continues to grapple with the opioid crisis, which has fueled both drug-related offenses and related property crimes.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic had an unexpected impact on crime trends in 2020. With many people facing economic hardship, social isolation, and increased stress, incidents of domestic violence increased across the country, with the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice reporting an 8.1% increase in domestic violence cases during the early months of the pandemic, particularly in the more densely populated areas.
Efforts to Reduce Crime in Nassau County
The Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) has implemented various strategies to reduce crime, including community policing, crime prevention programs, and increased patrols in high-crime areas. The NCPD has been involved in many different collaborations with local government agencies, schools, and community groups to curb crime.
Additionally, Nassau County has seen an increase in mental health support programs for those struggling with addiction and psychological issues, as these problems are often linked to criminal behavior. The Nassau County Mental Health Department works closely with NCPD to provide resources for offenders in need of treatment rather than incarceration.
What This Means for Residents and the Need for Legal Representation
Crime rates in Nassau County affect more than just statistics — they have real-world consequences for residents. As law enforcement agencies continue to work to reduce crime, arrests, and prosecutions often increase, making it more likely for individuals to face legal trouble, even in situations where they may have acted in self-defense or been wrongly accused.
In response to crime trends, Nassau County police have increased patrols and cracked down on specific offenses, including drug-related crimes, theft, and violent incidents. While this helps maintain public safety, it also means more arrests, stricter bail conditions, and harsher sentencing. Individuals caught in the legal system, whether for a misdemeanor or felony, need strong legal representation to protect their rights.
FAQs
What Legal Defenses Can Be Used in Nassau County for a Property Crime Charge?
In Nassau County, common defenses for property crime charges include lack of intent, mistaken identity, and alibi. For instance, if you can prove you were somewhere else at the time of the crime, it could invalidate the charges. Additionally, self-defense or consent could be potential defenses, depending on the situation.
What Should I Do if I’m Wrongfully Accused of a Violent Crime in Nassau County?
If you’re wrongfully accused of a violent crime in Nassau County, it’s important to remain calm and silent until you speak with an attorney. At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, we can help make sure that any statements you make aren’t used against you. Additionally, we can investigate evidence, gather witnesses, and potentially provide an alibi to disprove the allegations.
How Does the Nassau County Court System Handle Repeat Offenders?
Repeat offenders in Nassau County face more severe penalties due to New York’s “three strikes” law, which can lead to harsher sentences after multiple convictions for serious crimes. The court considers prior offenses when determining bail, sentencing, or parole eligibility. At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, we can provide counsel on potential options for mitigating sentencing or seeking plea deals where applicable.
How Can a Nassau County Criminal Defense Attorney Help Reduce Charges or Penalties for a Drug-Related Offense?
A Nassau County criminal defense attorney can help reduce charges or penalties for a drug-related offense by negotiating plea deals, challenging the legality of evidence, or arguing that law enforcement violated constitutional rights during the arrest.
Depending on the situation, diversion programs or alternative sentencing might be available to avoid jail time. At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, we can guide you through all options to secure a favorable resolution.
Don’t Wait; Protect Yourself Today
If you’re arrested in Nassau County, understanding your rights is critical. Criminal charges, whether for a minor offense or a serious felony, can have lasting consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Even first-time offenders can face penalties that affect employment, housing, and immigration status.
At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, our attorneys provide aggressive legal defense for those accused of crimes in Nassau County. Whether negotiating plea deals, fighting wrongful charges, or seeking case dismissals, having an experienced legal team by your side can make the difference between a conviction and a favorable outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
