LAPORTE — The number of violent crimes reported across the unincorporated areas of the county was down last year, but there was a significant increase in alcohol-related crashes, the LaPorte County Sheriff's Office reported.
Alcohol-related crashes in the unincorporated areas of LaPorte County increased by 136% from 22 in 2023 to 52 last year, County Sheriff Ronald Heeg said.
Heeg said 17 people died in crashes in 2024, which amounted to a 31% increase over the year prior.
"We are extremely concerned about the increase in the number of alcohol related crashes," Heeg said. "High-visibility aggressive traffic enforcement will continue and remain a priority to increase the safety of motorists traveling on roadways across LaPorte County."
A similar trend was reported this week just to the west by Hobart police, who said violent crimes were down or held steady in the city in 2024, while those arrested on allegations of operating while intoxicated nearly doubled from 127 in 2023 to 246 last year.
LaPorte County statistics for 2024 show the number of violent crimes reported decreased by 22% in 2024, Heeg said.
"A total of 189 violent crimes were investigated versus 242 the year prior," he said.
There was also a drop of 27% last year in major cases.
"We are very pleased with the reductions of violent and major crimes," Heeg said. "Lesser amounts of crimes such as burglaries, thefts, and batteries signify a safer LaPorte County."
Total arrests for 2024 reportedly fell by 18% over the year prior.
A close look at the 1,050 crashes investigated by the department in 2024 reveal the highest number occurred on Fridays and in Coolspring Township, police reported.
"The agency remains focused on improving public safety for all and keeping LaPorte County a wonderful place to reside, work, and visit," Heeg said.
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