Teen lesbian couple found shot in Texas park

[Gormy Cuss]

37. *Reported* crimes being the key qualification here.

UCR statistics are reliable estimates of reported crime and somewhat reliable at the state and local level for trending data within a specific jurisdiction but comparatives from jurisdiction to jurisdiction based on a single crime statistic are problematic.

The strength (personnel and other resources) and the aggressiveness of a jurisdiction’s law enforcement agency are also key factors in understanding the nature and extent of crime occurring in that area. For example, one city may report more crime than a comparable one, not because there is more crime, but rather because its law enforcement agency, through proactive efforts, identifies more offenses. Attitudes of the citizens toward crime and their crime reporting practices, especially concerning minor offenses, also have an impact on the volume of crimes known to police. (snip)

Hate Crime Statistics provides a nationwide view of hate crime based on statistics contributed by local, county, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies. Although many of the listed factors equally affect the crime of a particular area, the UCR Program makes no attempt to relate them to the data presented. The data user is, therefore, cautioned against comparing statistical data of individual reporting units from cities, counties, metropolitan areas, states, or colleges or universities solely on the basis of their population coverage or student enrollment.

http://www2.fbi.gov/ucr/hc2009/variables.html