SMC Sheriff Reports 14% Drop In Violent Crime Last Year

REDWOOD CITY, CA — The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office reported notable declines in violent and property crimes last year, including a single murder investigation within its jurisdiction.

The sheriff's office's annual statistics reflect crimes reported in unincorporated areas of the county, including the communities of Half Moon Bay, Millbrae, San Carlos, Portola Valley, and Woodside, as well as incidents aboard Caltrain and SamTrans.

Overall, the sheriff's office found a 14 percent decrease in violent crimes, reflecting 149 fewer reports than the previous year. Property crime reports dropped 15 percent, reflecting 487 fewer incidents.

The report shows a single murder investigation last year, down from eight recorded in 2023. Car thefts were among the few areas that saw a rise in reports, amounting to a 9 percent increase in 2024.

"San Mateo County continues to be a safe place to live, work, and visit," Sheriff Christina Corpus said in a statement. "These substantial decreases in crime are a direct result of the unwavering commitment of the men and women of the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, who work tirelessly to protect our communities. Out partnerships with residents, businesses, and local organizations have played a crucial role in ensuring public safety."

Here are some of the highlights from the report:

• Murder/Manslaughter: Remains rare, with one manslaughter case reported in 2024. (The San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office did not file manslaughter charges on this case.)
• Rape Offenses: Decreased by 25%, with nine fewer cases reported.
• Aggravated Assault: Decreased by 25%, with 44 fewer incidents.
• Simple Assault: Decreased by 18%, with 112 fewer cases reported.
• Robbery: Increased by 15%, with eight additional cases reported.
• Residential and Commercial Burglary: Decreased by 7%, with 21 fewer incidents.
• Larceny/Theft: Decreased by 17%, with 237 fewer incidents.
• Stolen Property Cases: Decreased by 25%, with 40 fewer cases reported.
• Motor Vehicle Theft: Increased by 9%, with 18 additional incidents reported