| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Putnam/100k people | Connecticut/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 85 | n/a (estimate) | 910 | 1,502 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.4 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 5 | n/a | 53.5 | 17.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 10.7 | 38.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 5 | n/a | 53.5 | 77.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 11 | n/a (estimate) | 118 | 136 | 359 |
| Burglary | 8 | n/a | 85.6 | 117.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 53 | n/a | 567.1 | 1,013.7 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 13 | n/a | 139.1 | 235.0 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 74 | n/a (estimate) | 792 | 1,366 | 1,760 |

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Putnam is 57.1% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 11 violent crimes reported in Putnam, equivalent to 118 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 67.2%. Additionally, Putnam recorded 74 property crimes, amounting to 792 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 55%.
Putnam stands out with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the United States. Reporting only 118 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Putnam secures its place among the safest cities in the nation, making it an enticing destination for those in search of a new home.
In the most recently reported crime year, Putnam registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Putnam residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 5 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 80% of Putnam residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 20% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Putnam, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Putnam presents a total crime rate that is 57% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Putnam experiences an average of 0.23 daily crimes, comprising 0.03 violent incidents and 0.2 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Putnam crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Putnam has decreased by 25.4% year over year. Violent crime has decreased by 52.2% and property crime has decreased by 18.7%.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Putnam crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Putnam has an unemployment rate of 4.4%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
The impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Putnam, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 0, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.
In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Putnam is $341,956, compared to a national average of $326,622.
| Item | Putnam | Connecticut | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | n/a | 5,593 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | 2.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Connecticut /100K | National /100K |
| Connecticut | 6,088 | 184 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Harmony, RI | 1,230 | 40 | 270 | 310 |
| Holland, MA | 1,463 | 115 | 268 | 383 |
| Chepachet, RI | 1,735 | 50 | 336 | 386 |
| Harrisville, RI | 1,316 | 50 | 337 | 387 |
| Greene, RI | 1,050 | 52 | 348 | 400 |
| South Woodstock, CT | 1,068 | 52 | 518 | 570 |
| East Douglas, MA | 3,073 | 127 | 447 | 574 |
| Putnam, CT | 7,358 | 118 | 792 | 910 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Unionville, NC | 7,359 | 171 | 894 | 1,065 |
| Sappington, MO | 7,356 | 189 | 796 | 985 |
| Umatilla, OR | 7,361 | 216 | 977 | 1,192 |
| Fair Plain, MI | 7,362 | 407 | 1,294 | 1,702 |
| Seward, NE | 7,363 | 78 | 652 | 731 |
| Putnam, CT | 7,358 | 118 | 792 | 910 |