Charleston Crime Statistics and How Home & Business Security Systems Can Help

Charleston Crime Is Down—But These Areas Still Face Risk

2024 Charleston Crime Breakdown: What’s Really Happening

• Charleston Police report a 10.7% drop in overall crime for 2024 compared to prior years.
  
• Specifically, homicides fell 47.4%, sex offenses 28.9%, motor vehicle thefts 27.9%, robberies 22.7%, and burglaries 21.5%; only aggravated assault ticked up 4.3%. See the statistics.
  

Charleston County Crime: The Bigger Picture

• Charleston County had the most murders in SC in 2023 (70) and reported 1,921 vehicle thefts—second only behind Richland County.
  
• North Charleston saw a 19% drop in violent crime Jan–Mar 2025 and 25% fewer homicides, though business burglaries rose 73%, and car break-ins rose. See the statistics.
  

Key Takeaway: Overall crime is trending down, but property crimes—especially theft—remain serious threats in key downtown and suburban areas.

How Security Systems Help Prevent Crime in Charleston

1. Deterrence Through Visibility
   
   • Visible cameras act as a strong deterrent. Neighborhoods using license‑plate‑reading cameras report drastic drops in crime—one North Charleston community saw incidents drop from ~30 to just 1 after installation. See article here!
     
2. Essential Evidence Capture
   
   • High-definition cameras provide clear footage critical for resolving burglaries or vandalism. Coastal security providers confirm that “neighborhoods and business districts with camera surveillance often experience lower crime rates… recorded footage provides concrete proof”.
     
3. Faster Police Response
   
   • Charleston’s new Connect Charleston program lets residents register their camera locations so CPD can quickly identify footage sources during investigations.
     
4. Gaining Control with Advanced Tech
   
   • Integrated systems with access control, motion detection, and remote monitoring give homeowners and business owners real-time notifications—ideal for deterring opportunistic thefts (e.g., porch pirates, vehicle break-ins).
     

Security Solutions Designed for Crime Trends

Must-Follow Security Tips for Charleston Homes & Businesses

Camera Placement & Quality

• High definition, night vision, and weatherproof security system features are essential
  

Community Integration

• Join Charleston’s Connect Charleston camera registration program to support local law enforcement.
  

Remote Monitoring & Alerts

• Real-time video and sensor alerts keep you informed wherever you are.
  

Regular Maintenance & Upgrades

• Annual checkups ensure cameras, alarms, and sensors function properly (e.g., battery health, connectivity).

Charleston Security Systems is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation today!