Rising Crime in El Paso, Texas

El Paso, Texas, long celebrated as one of the safest large cities in the United States, is grappling with a troubling uptick in crime that has residents, law enforcement, and city officials on edge. Known for its vibrant culture, strong community ties, and strategic location along the U.S.-Mexico border, El Paso has historically boasted low crime rates compared to other cities of its size. However, recent data and community sentiment indicate that the city is facing new challenges, with increases in violent crime, property crime, and gang-related activity threatening its reputation as a safe haven.

The Numbers Tell the Story

According to the El Paso Police Department’s 2024 annual report, overall crime in the city rose by 8.3% compared to 2023. Violent crimes, including homicides, aggravated assaults, and robberies, saw a particularly sharp increase of 12.7%. Homicides alone jumped from 23 in 2023 to 31 in 2024, a 34.8% spike that has alarmed residents. Property crimes, such as burglaries and auto thefts, also climbed, with a reported 9.1% increase year-over-year. These figures mark a significant departure from the downward trend in crime that El Paso enjoyed for much of the past decade.

The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data for the first half of 2025, while preliminary, suggests the trend is continuing. El Paso’s violent crime rate per 100,000 residents has crept closer to the national average, a stark contrast to its historically low rankings. While the city still fares better than many urban centers, the erosion of its “safest city” status has sparked urgent discussions about causes and solutions.

What’s Driving the Increase?

Several factors appear to be contributing to El Paso’s rising crime rates, reflecting both local dynamics and broader national trends.

Economic Pressures and Inequality

El Paso’s economy, heavily reliant on trade, manufacturing, and retail, has faced challenges in recent years. Inflation, stagnant wages, and a high poverty rate—around 18.6% according to the U.S. Census Bureau—have strained many households. Economic hardship often correlates with property crimes like theft and burglary, as individuals turn to illegal means to make ends meet. Community leaders also point to a lack of upward mobility for young people, which can fuel disenfranchisement and involvement in criminal activity.

Gang Activity and Drug Trafficking

El Paso’s proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border makes it a hotspot for drug trafficking and gang-related activity. Law enforcement officials report a resurgence of gang presence in certain neighborhoods, particularly in areas like the Lower Valley and East El Paso. The Barrio Azteca gang, a notorious group with ties to Mexican cartels, has been linked to recent violent incidents, including shootings and drug-related crimes. The flow of fentanyl and other narcotics across the border has further exacerbated tensions, with rival groups vying for control of lucrative smuggling routes.

Strain on Law Enforcement

The El Paso Police Department (EPPD) is facing staffing shortages, a problem plaguing departments nationwide. As of early 2025, the EPPD is operating with approximately far fewer officers than its authorized strength of 1,100. Recruitment and retention challenges, coupled with low morale following years of intense scrutiny on policing practices, have hampered the department’s ability to respond effectively to rising crime. Response times for non-emergency calls have increased, and proactive policing efforts, such as community patrols, have been scaled back.

We have submitted multiple Freedom of Information Act requests seeking the number of officers within the El Paso Police Department. We have been told there are no responsive documents.

Post-Pandemic Social Shifts

The COVID-19 pandemic left lasting scars on communities across the U.S., and El Paso is no exception. Social isolation, mental health challenges, and disruptions to education and community programs have contributed to a rise in juvenile delinquency and domestic violence. Local shelters and advocacy groups report a surge in domestic abuse cases, which account for a significant portion of the city’s aggravated assault statistics.

Community Impact and Response

The rise in crime has shaken El Paso’s tight-knit communities, where safety has long been a point of pride. Residents in neighborhoods like Cielo Vista and Mission Valley express growing unease about leaving their homes at night or allowing children to play outside unsupervised. Small businesses, already reeling from economic pressures, face additional burdens from shoplifting and vandalism.

Community organizations and faith-based groups have stepped up to address the crisis. Programs like the El Paso Community Foundation’s youth initiatives aim to provide mentorship and recreational opportunities to at-risk teens. Meanwhile, neighborhood watch groups have proliferated, with residents taking a more active role in monitoring their streets.

City officials are also responding with a multi-pronged approach. In late 2024, the El Paso City Council approved a $15 million budget increase for public safety, with funds allocated for officer recruitment, new patrol vehicles, and advanced surveillance technology. Mayor Oscar Leeser has emphasized the importance of community policing, urging residents to partner with law enforcement to rebuild trust and deter crime. Additionally, the city is exploring partnerships with federal agencies, including the DEA and FBI, to combat gang and drug-related activity.

Challenges and Hope for the Future

Despite these efforts, El Paso faces significant hurdles. Addressing the root causes of crime—poverty, lack of opportunity, and systemic inequities—requires long-term investment and collaboration across sectors. The city’s border location, while a cultural and economic asset, complicates efforts to curb transnational crime. Moreover, rebuilding public trust in law enforcement will be critical to fostering a united front against rising crime rates.

Yet, El Paso’s resilience and community spirit offer hope. The city has faced challenges before, from economic downturns to the tragic 2019 Walmart shooting, and emerged stronger. Local leaders and residents alike are determined to reverse the current trend and restore El Paso’s reputation as a safe, welcoming place to live.

Conclusion

El Paso, Texas, stands at a crossroads. The city’s rising crime rates are a call to action for residents, policymakers, and law enforcement to work together to address immediate threats while tackling the underlying issues that fuel criminal activity. By investing in community programs, strengthening public safety, and fostering economic opportunity, El Paso can reclaim its status as one of America’s safest cities. For now, the border city’s future depends on its ability to confront these challenges with the same unity and determination that have defined it for generations.