Black Hawk County’s 2020 Crime Report Released

Some crimes increased significantly in rural Black Hawk County in 2020, but the overall amount of illegal activity was mostly equal to the numbers reported the previous year.

An annual report released by Sheriff Tony Thompson shows there were fewer calls for service and jail bookings during the past 12 months. However, Thompson noted there were “measurable increases” in burglaries, drug violations, sexual offenses and drunk driving.

According to the figures, deputies made 214 OWI arrests last year, 100 more than in 2019. Drug violations rose from 213 to 295. Sexual assaults went from three to 16, and burglaries increased from 67 to 74.

Thompson attributed the higher numbers to his department’s focus on drugs and drunken driving. The COVID-19 pandemic was also a factor in the crime numbers.

“When people are cooped up, held more-closely together for longer periods of time, substance abuse crimes and sexual assaults usually increase," Thompson said. "Our staff also increased their attention on drugs and drunken driving arrests to ensure roadway safety this past 12 months.”

UCR REPORTABLE OFFENSES