Sterling cites fewer violent, property crimes than peer cities

STERLING HEIGHTS — Sterling Heights officials believe it’s safe to say yet again that their city is the safest big city in Michigan, based on recent FBI crime figures.

In October, the city announced that it has the lowest number of total violent and property crimes among Michigan cities with populations over 100,000, based on the FBI’s 2023 crime stats. The other big cities in that class are Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Warren, Dearborn and Ann Arbor, Sterling Heights officials said.

Sterling Heights had the lowest number among those cities for violent crime, which was tallied at 210. Sterling Heights’ violent crime totals were also lowest in all major subcategories, including murder/non-negligible homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assault.

In addition, Sterling Heights had the lowest number of property crimes among the big cities, with 2,522. It also had the lowest numbers of burglaries and larcenies among those cities. Ann Arbor had the lowest number of reported auto thefts, at 162, compared to Sterling Heights’ 219. Sterling Heights’ 11 arsons placed the city just a bit above Ann Arbor and Dearborn, which each had 10.

To compare Sterling Heights’ crime stats with its closest big-city neighbor, Warren, Sterling Heights has 255% fewer violent crimes and 67% fewer property crimes.

In addition, compared to 2022, the SHPD noted that the city’s own reported violent crimes dipped by 19% in 2023, and property crimes likewise declined by 4%.

City officials credit several factors for their latest crime stats, including the 2021 funding — and subsequent hiring — of seven additional police officers; the Police Department’s substance abuse and rehabilitation programs; the Police Department’s accreditation from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission; law enforcement technology like the Flock Safety license plate recognition camera system; and more.

In a statement, Sterling Heights police Chief Dale Dwojakowski said he “couldn’t be any prouder” of the SHPD’s staff.

“The partnership with our residents is second to none and has helped drive down crime year after year,” Dwojakowski said. “None of this would be possible without the unwavering support from our elected officials and city administration.”

In a statement, Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor called the safest big city distinction more than a “badge of honor” — it’s proof of the police and the community working together.

“Sterling Heights isn’t just a city on a map; we set the standard,” Taylor said.

Learn more about Sterling Heights by visiting sterlingheights.gov or by calling (586) 446-2489.