In a recent survey conducted by CBC in downtown Hamilton, the majority of respondents expressed feelings of unease regarding safety in the city. Surprisingly, when informed by a reporter that crime rates in Hamilton have consistently remained below both provincial and national averages over the past five years according to data published by Statistics Canada in July, these individuals were taken aback.
The statistics reveal that Hamilton ranks below provincial and national averages in the crime severity index, encompassing all Criminal Code violations, drug offenses, and federal statute violations. Moreover, the city has witnessed a continual decline in the homicide rate for the past three years and has maintained levels below those of the province and the country since 2021.
Addressing the disparity between public perception and factual data, Chief Frank Bergen of the Hamilton Police Service acknowledged the disconnect between statistical trends and public sentiment during a community safety summit in November. Despite positive trends in the crime severity index, the perceived sense of safety among residents remains lacking.
At a separate community gathering in May, attendees voiced concerns about safety in the downtown area. Police shared data indicating that the average “crime harm” rate in downtown Hamilton aligns with that of the rest of the city. Community advocate Evelyn Myrie suggested that recent high-profile crimes, such as the tragic deaths of Belinda Sarkodie and Harsimrat Randhawa in 2025, may contribute to residents’ feelings of insecurity.
While overall crime rates have been decreasing, certain exceptions have been noted in Hamilton, particularly in the realms of hate crimes and youth involvement in violent activities. Hate crimes have shown a year-over-year increase, reaching a peak in 2025, with the number of reported incidents rising significantly. Youth participation in violent crimes has also seen a rise since 2020, with an uptick in both the number of youth involved in crimes and the severity of associated harm.
Analyzing the surge in youth involvement in violent activities, experts cite various factors such as bear spray attacks involving young individuals, high-profile robberies, and several homicides involving teenagers. Police emphasize that this issue extends beyond Hamilton and requires a holistic approach encompassing economic inequality, gang recruitment, and social media influences.
