Robberies decreased in Allentown during the summer, while homicides and reported rapes increased compared to the same period last year, according to a new report.
On Tuesday, the City of Allentown released its first quarterly violent crime update, highlighting crime trends from July through September 2026, the third quarter of the year. The report focused on homicides, robberies, rapes and aggravated assaults.
“Our police officers, paramedics, Office of Violence Prevention, and residents all have a role to play in
building a safer Allentown. I want residents to understand not only what the numbers show, but also
the work happening everyday to make our neighborhoods safer,” Mayor Matt Tuerk wrote in a statement.
Officials shared a chart breaking down violent crime data, comparing the third quarters of 2025 and 2026, as well as year-over-year trends.
| Violent Crime | Q3 2025 | Q3 2026 | % Change | 10/1/2024- 9/30/2025 | 10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026 | % Change (12 months) |
| Homicide | 0 | 2 | 100% | 2 | 7 | 250% |
| Rape | 9 | 12 | 33.33% | 49 | 42 | -14.29% |
| Robbery | 19 | 14 | -26.32% | 89 | 72 | -19.10% |
| Agg. Assault | 36 | 47 | 30.56% | 182 | 167 | -8.24% |
Allentown recorded 14 robberies, down from 19 during the same period in 2025 — a decrease of about 26%.
According to the report, the most commonly stolen items during robberies over the 12-month period ending in September 2026 were money, with an average of just over $600 stolen, and handheld electronic devices. The report found no preference for a particular cellphone make or model.
Allentown recorded two homicides in the third quarter of 2026. Although that number increased compared to the same period last year, which was zero, the city’s annual homicide total remains lower than in many previous years.
Moreover, the Allentown Police Department achieved a 100% clearance rate for homicides during the third quarter of 2026.
Over the 12-month period from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2026, the department’s homicide clearance rate was 75%, exceeding the national average of approximately 61% reported for 2024, officials said.
“We know the impact these crimes have on victims, families, and our entire community, and we remain committed to thorough investigations and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice,” Chief Charles Roca said in a statement.
Reported rapes increased from nine in the third quarter of 2025 to 12 during the same period in 2026.
According to the report, data suggests that roughly half of sexual assaults involve someone known to the victim. Nationally, that percentage rises to 80% to 85%.
“The City encourages survivors to come forward when they feel safe doing so and remains committed
to supporting survivors, conducting thorough investigations, and connecting victims with appropriate
resources,” officials said.
According to the report, nearly half of all aggravated assaults involve domestic incidents occurring in homes between romantic partners or family members.
Police also responded to an additional 3,162 domestic disputes during the reporting period.
The report emphasized the importance of collaboration between police and residents to maintain public safety.
City officials said community members who report crimes, share information and remain engaged in their neighborhoods can help police respond to incidents and support investigations.
Residents can also take steps to reduce opportunities for robbery and theft.
Allentown residents and visitors are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, keep valuables out of sight and avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public.
When leaving a vehicle, residents should lock the doors, close the windows and keep valuables out of view.
The city said it will continue releasing quarterly updates to give residents a clearer understanding of public safety conditions and the steps being taken to prevent crime.
