2025 Statistics Canada Crime Severity Index Released

Each year, Statistics Canada releases the Crime Severity Index (CSI) and Weighted Clearance Rate. The CSI is based on police-reported crime and accounts for both the amount of crime reported by police in their given jurisdiction and the seriousness of those crimes. The CSI measures changes in the level of crime severity in a community year over year. The Weighted Clearance Rate (WCR) measures how effective police are at solving crime.

Last week, Statistics Canada released the 2025 Crime Severity Index. The numbers reported show a significant improvement in all areas for Sarnia.

After increases in Violent CSI since 2023, there has been a significant reduction in the Violent CSI to numbers not seen since 2019. The Overall CSI and Non-Violent CSI in 2025 represent the lowest indexes ever reported by the Sarnia Police Service since the implementation of police-reported crime statistics.

In 2024, the Sarnia Police Service reported the highest WCRs (cases solved) ever reported. This continues in 2025 with significant increases in every category.

"The annual CSI is an important measure as it factors the volume of crime with the severity of the offences that are occurring in our community. The year-over-year improvement reflects the collective efforts of our dedicated members and the public we serve. Crime trends are constantly evolving, and one year’s statistics do not define the overall public safety picture. Our focus remains on addressing the issues that impact our community through innovative proactive policing, forming strong partnerships, and utilizing analytically supported strategies. We remain committed to continuous improvement and ensuring the residents have confidence in the police service." - Deputy Chief Michael Van Sickle