Scottsdale officials tout reduction of serious crime in downtown area

PHOENIX – Scottsdale officials say a multifaceted approach to law enforcement is helping reduce serious crime in the city’s downtown area.

Group A offenses – a category that includes burglary, drug possession, theft and robbery – in the city’s entertainment district are down by 22.6% during the first quarter of 2025, according to Scottsdale crime statistics released last week.

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our Scottsdale Police Department, the active participation of our residents and businesses, and the effectiveness of the proactive measures we’ve implemented,” Mayor Lisa Borowsky said in a press release.

The total of Group A offenses in January-March of this year was 663, down from 857 over the same time last year.

Twenty-two types of crimes are classified as Group A. The groups are defined by the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System.

Closer look at downtown Scottsdale crime statistics

Much of the first-quarter downtown Scottsdale crime reduction came in the number of larceny/theft cases, which fell from 438 in 2024 to 297 (down 32.2%) this year.

Drug/narcotic offenses declined from 64 to 52 (down 18.8%), although the number was lower in 2023 at 50.

Meanwhile, instances of destruction/damage/vandalism increased from 41 to 51, a rise of 24.4%. However, that’s still a 36.3% drop from the 2023 figure of 80.

The results weren’t all positive. In fact, Group B offenses, which are less serious than Group A, were up 17% in Scottsdale’s entertainment district. Most notably, the number of trespassing cases soared from 67 to 104 (up 55.2%) in the first quarter.

New Scottsdale Police Chief Joe LeDuc said his department is taking a proactive approach to reducing crime and using data to support its strategy.

“We increase officer presence during peak hours and continually seek to strengthen partnerships with local businesses,” LeDuc said in the release. “Our community engagement efforts, special projects teams, bike units and our Real Time Crime Center all play a vital role in ensuring a safer, more responsive environment for everyone who lives, works and visits downtown.”

Borowsky said the city as a whole benefits from a safer entertainment district.

“This is not just about numbers; it’s about the quality of life for our residents and the experience of our visitors,” she said. “A safer Scottsdale hospitality sector benefits everyone, from patrons enjoying an evening out to entrepreneurs investing in our local economy.”

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