Kootenai County Sees Crime Numbers Drop

In 2024, Kootenai County experienced a notable decline in reported crimes, marking a significant shift from previous years. The total number of offenses dropped by nearly 10%, with 7, 079 incidents reported, down from 7, 984 in 2023. This decrease follows a pattern of fluctuation, with the lowest number of offenses recorded in 2020 at 6, 022. The most common crimes in the county were drug-related, with 1, 335 narcotic violations and 1, 220 cases involving drug equipment. Simple assaults and thefts were also prevalent, with 1, 244 and 1, 210 reported cases, respectively. Violent crimes, including one murder, 61 rapes, and nine statutory rapes, were reported. Additionally, there were 126 weapons law violations and 14 cases of animal cruelty. Driving under the influence (DUI) cases decreased by 137, totaling 529, with five involving juvenile drivers. Disorderly conduct and nonviolent family offenses accounted for 190 and 115 cases, respectively. Liquor law violations increased by 177, reaching 314. Law enforcement made 6, 420 arrests in 2024, an 8% decrease from the previous year. Juvenile arrests dropped from 900 to 680. The arrest rate stands at 3, 397 per 100, 000 residents, with the lowest number of arrests occurring in 2020 (5, 034) and the highest in 2023 (6, 979). Statewide, Idaho saw a 4. 8% decrease in reported crimes, totaling 72, 012 offenses. Property crimes were the most common, with 27, 489 cases, including 11, 229 thefts, 5, 782 property destructions, and 5, 097 frauds. Crimes against society primarily involved drugs, with 12, 813 narcotic violations and 11, 327 drug equipment violations. Simple assaults were the most frequent crime against persons, with 11, 149 cases. Violent crimes statewide included 30 murders, 636 rapes, and 13 human trafficking cases. The latter involved 11 cases of commercial sex acts and two of involuntary servitude.