GTA Residents Express Crime Concerns Despite Police Data Decline

A recent survey reveals that residents in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are increasingly concerned about crime rates, even as police reports indicate a decline in certain criminal activities. Conducted by Liaison Strategies, the survey found that 72 percent of Torontonians believe homicide rates in the city have risen over the past year. In contrast, the Toronto Police Service (TPS) reported a total of 42 homicides in 2025, marking the lowest number since 1986.

The survey also highlighted growing fears regarding various crimes, such as assault, robbery, motor vehicle theft, and hate crimes. David Valentin, principal at Liaison Strategies, noted that crime has replaced affordable housing as the primary concern among residents. He stated, “What we saw across the board is that people, no matter what kind of crime it is, no matter where they live, they think crime is going up.”

Despite these perceptions, data from multiple police agencies in the GTA indicate a decrease in crime rates compared to previous years. In a year-end interview with CBC’s Dwight Drummond, TPS Chief Myron Demkiw acknowledged the drop in crime, emphasizing that the city is experiencing a reduction after several years of elevated rates. He did, however, express concern regarding the rise of youth crime.

Contrasting Sentiments on Crime Rates

According to Stephanie Sayer, a spokesperson for the Toronto Police, major crime indicators have decreased in all categories this year, with the exception of thefts exceeding $5,000. “We recognize that lower numbers don’t automatically translate into people feeling safer,” she explained. “After several years of higher crime, trust and confidence take time to rebuild. That’s why visibility matters.”

The survey results also revealed that 76 percent of Torontonians believe crime has increased nationwide over the past year. This sentiment extends across the GTA, with 77 percent of residents in Brampton, 64 percent in Mississauga, and nearly 60 percent in Vaughan and Markham expressing similar concerns.

Liaison Strategies surveyed 800 residents each in Brampton, Mississauga, Vaughan, and Markham, along with 1,000 people in Toronto over two days in October 2023, using Interactive Voice Response technology to gather their opinions.

Mixed Data on Crime Trends

Data from Peel Regional Police indicates that the number of homicides from January 1 to October 31, 2025, has decreased compared to the same period in the previous year. This trend applies to most major crimes in the region, except for sexual offences. Similarly, York Regional Police reported a decline in most crimes for the same timeframe, with homicide rates down 53 percent from 19 deaths in 2024 to just 9 deaths in 2025.

While the survey did not explicitly ask respondents why they felt less safe, Valentin mentioned that they intend to investigate factors influencing public perception of crime. He suggested that news coverage and social media could play significant roles in shaping these views.

One Toronto resident, Jade Phiri, expressed concern that social media platforms often lack the selectivity of traditional media in reporting crime, potentially leading to heightened perceptions of danger. Another resident, Lorne Stepak, noted that social media posts may have a more substantial impact on public perception of safety than actual crime statistics. “Everybody with a cellphone is a reporter, everybody with a cellphone is a blogger,” Stepak remarked, emphasizing the influence of online narratives.

Demkiw highlighted the potential impact of political discourse on public perceptions of crime. He stated that the recent provincial and federal elections may have influenced residents’ views due to politicians emphasizing crime-related issues and specific incidents that capture public attention.

As the city grapples with conflicting perceptions and realities regarding crime, the TPS continues to work on community engagement initiatives to enhance safety and improve residents’ sense of security in their neighborhoods.