NEWS RELEASE Contact: Chief Cynthia McAlister
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE cmalister@purcellvilleva.gov; 540-338-7422
PURCELLVILLE RANKED SAFEST CITY IN VIRGINIA
PURCELLVILLE, Va. March 20, 2020 — In light of the current events encompassing not only our community, but the nation as well, we are pleased to share positive news that the Town of Purcellville was ranked the “Safest City” in Virginia for 2020 by the National Council For Home Safety and Security. Using the latest FBI Uniform Crime Report (UCR) data available, Purcellville received the number one ranking as the safest community in Virginia with a minimum population of 10,000. Purcellville had only 59 total UCR crimes in 2018, with a total crime rate of 5.85 per 1,000 residents.
Overall, Virginia was rated as one of the safest states in America, with the 4th lowest violent crime rate, and 13th in property crimes for the nation based on 2018 FBI UCR statistics.
Purcellville’s crime rate of 5.85 per 1,000 residents was significantly below Virginia’s overall rate of 24.83.
The UCR program categorizes crime into two broad classifications: violent crimes and non-violent crimes. The FBI compiles violent crimes from four offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Violent crimes under the UCR program are offenses that involve force or threat of force. Property crime included the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The object of theft-type offense is the taking of money or property, but there is no force or threat against the victims. The total number of crimes reported by each city was computed by adding the violent crimes and property crimes. The crime rate was determined by the number of crimes per 1,000 population.
Chief of Police, Cynthia McAlister stated, “We have always known that Purcellville is a great town, and the recognition as the “Safest City” in Virginia just reinforces what a wonderful community we proudly serve. The dedication of our officers working together with residents, businesses, and other town staff members is reflected in this acknowledgment.”
The full report can be viewed at https://www.alarms.org/safest-cities-in-virginia/
The Town of Purcellville, Virginia
“Purcellville-your small Town, where history and progress intersect and people prosper,” is an award-winning town of over 10,000 residents located in Loudoun County, approximately 50 miles west of Washington, DC. Having received the prestigious Siemens Sustainability Award for Small Communities, Purcellville continues to be honored for its green initiatives with most recently being the Tree City USA recipient for the 12th year. The Town was reaffirmed as a AAA rated community by S&P Global Ratings, the highest credit rating possible, and is recognized as one of the safest towns in Virginia. Once a stop along the W&OD rail line, which has been converted to a multi-use trail from Alexandria, VA to Purcellville, the Town has maintained its historic old-town feel through the restoration and maintenance of its many downtown structures, reflecting the Victorian architecture popular during the early 1900s. Today, Purcellville is the economic hub of western Loudoun County and a popular weekend destination for antiquing, equestrian activities, farmer’s markets, wineries, breweries, distilleries and restaurants. More info at www.purcellvilleva.gov.
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