Security in Weyhe: How objective numbers deceive our feelings

Security in Weyhe: How objective numbers deceive our feelings

In today's discussion about security in the community of Weyhe, a remarkable finding is made public: the local crime statistics show the region as a safe place, but the feeling of insecurity remains among many citizens. That's how he reports Weser courier that although violent acts such as fights, thefts and damage to property occur in the region, the overall frequency of crimes can be classified as low. This discrepancy between actual measured security and perceived threat makes citizens think.

As an overview of crime developments in Germany shows, the total number of crimes fell by 1.7% in 2024, according to the police crime statistics (PKS). This is partly interpreted as a result of the partial legalization of cannabis, which has been in effect since April 2024. Nevertheless, there is an increase in crimes that can significantly affect the feeling of security, as shown in the database Statista is held. This illustrates the ongoing difficult situation surrounding the individual's sense of security.

The gap between statistics and perception

Interestingly, studies conducted as part of the report by DMZ News published that many people feel unsafe in their everyday lives, even though crime statistics do not show any dramatic deterioration. In fact, subjective perception is often in stark contrast to objective reality. Media reporting on violent crimes further reinforces this impression, and digital platforms also contribute to the spread of exaggerated representations.

The Federal Criminal Police Office's PKS states that there was already an increase in registered crimes of 5.5% in 2023. As a result, trust in the police and justice system is at risk, while citizens tend to avoid certain places, which can lead to social division. To counteract this development, experts are calling for greater police presence and objective debates to strengthen trust in the institutions.

Security in numbers

Despite these challenges, there are encouraging aspects in the crime statistics that should fuel the optimism of Weyher's citizens. In recent years, both the number of crimes and the number of suspects have increased. However, it is noteworthy that there has been a decline in the number of juvenile suspects, perhaps indicating positive developments in prevention work.

• Häufigste Straftaten in 2024: Diebstähle, Vermögens- und Fälschungsdelikte, Rohheitsdelikte.
• Verbrechen gegen das Leben machen 0,1 % der Fälle aus; Sexualdelikte 2,2 %.
• Die Aufklärungsquote lag bei 58 %, ein leichter Rückgang im Vergleich zum Vorjahr.

It is clear that perceived security and objective reality are often not in harmony. While the data appears positive for Weyhe, it is important to work on future initiatives to increase citizens' sense of security. This is the only way to further promote dialogue about safety in the community and ensure trust in public order.