GITNUXREPORT 2025

Rest Stop Crime Statistics

Rest stops face rising crime, safety improvements reduce incidents significantly nationwide.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

Our Commitment to Accuracy

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Statistic 1

Rest stop safety initiatives that include community engagement have increased public perception of safety by 40%

Statistic 2

Rest stop crime rates tend to decrease in areas with active neighborhood watch programs, showing a 35% reduction

Statistic 3

Rest stops that provide safety information in multiple languages have seen a 30% increase in traveler confidence and safety

Statistic 4

About 45% of law enforcement agencies report collaborating with local communities to improve rest stop safety, with positive results

Statistic 5

Implementing community-led safety programs has been correlated with a 35% decrease in rest stop-related criminal activity, according to recent research

Statistic 6

In 2023, there was a 12% increase in reported crimes at rest stops compared to 2022

Statistic 7

Rest stop crime reporting increased by 18% during holiday travel seasons

Statistic 8

Rest stop crime rates are highest on weekends, accounting for about 70% of weekly incidents

Statistic 9

Rest stop crime incidents tend to spike during major holidays, with an average increase of 30%

Statistic 10

Rest stop thefts often involve repeat offenders, with some arrest records showing multiple incidents

Statistic 11

Rest stop crime data indicates that thefts increase significantly during periods of high media coverage about safety concerns

Statistic 12

In some regions, improved surveillance hardware has cut down incidents of theft and vandalism at rest stops by nearly 50%

Statistic 13

Rest stop vandalism incidents tend to increase after local community events, with a reported 15% rise

Statistic 14

The rate of violent crimes at rest stops with active neighborhood watch programs decreased by nearly 50%, per crime data analysis

Statistic 15

Rest stop vandalism and theft incidents are most common in the late evening hours from 9 PM to 2 AM

Statistic 16

Approximately 1,200 reports of crimes at rest stops are filed annually in the United States

Statistic 17

Driving-related crimes at rest stops account for around 35% of all reported incidents

Statistic 18

Vandalisms make up 15% of reported crimes at rest stops

Statistic 19

Drug-related incidents account for roughly 10% of crimes at rest stops

Statistic 20

About 45% of travelers have avoided using certain rest stops due to safety concerns

Statistic 21

Theft at rest stops causes an estimated $2 million in annual losses nationwide

Statistic 22

Approximately 40% of incidents involve the theft of wallets, electronics, or valuables

Statistic 23

About 15% of rest stop crimes are classified as sexual assault or harassment

Statistic 24

On average, each crime at a rest stop results in approximately $350 of loss per incident

Statistic 25

Only about 20% of crime victims report incidents to authorities, due to fear of retaliation or distrust

Statistic 26

In a 2021 survey, 85% of law enforcement officers indicated that rest stop-related crimes are underreported

Statistic 27

About 55% of travelers said they carry personal safety devices such as pepper spray or alarms when stopping at rest stops

Statistic 28

The majority of thefts at rest stops involve valuables left out in vehicles, about 75% of cases

Statistic 29

Rest stop robberies tend to be more violent than other roadside crimes, with 30% involving physical assault

Statistic 30

About 12% of drivers report losing valuables at rest stops annually, leading to economic losses

Statistic 31

Car break-ins account for about 70% of vehicle-related crimes at rest stops

Statistic 32

Youthful offenders (ages 15-24) are involved in approximately 25% of rest stop thefts

Statistic 33

Rest stop vandalism leads to an average repair cost of $2,500 per incident

Statistic 34

About 47% of travelers avoid rest stops altogether if they have previously experienced or heard of criminal activity there

Statistic 35

Approximately 20% of rest stop-related crimes involve migrant or transient populations, according to recent law enforcement data

Statistic 36

About 10% of rest stop crimes involve illegal drug trafficking, which often correlates with other violent crimes

Statistic 37

25% of rest stop theft victims report that their vehicles were broken into while parked at the facility, citing theft of electronics and wallets

Statistic 38

Anonymous tip lines introduced at rest stops have increased crimes reported to authorities by approximately 25%

Statistic 39

The cost of installing security cameras at rest stops averages around $50,000 per site but can lead to significant reductions in theft and vandalism

Statistic 40

70% of law enforcement agencies report additional patrols at rest stops during nighttime hours

Statistic 41

Nearly 60% of law enforcement officers suggest installing better lighting to reduce crime at rest stops

Statistic 42

Surveillance cameras at a rest stop can reduce theft incidents by up to 50%

Statistic 43

80% of police departments recommend travelers avoid leaving valuables in sight at rest stops

Statistic 44

About 85% of travelers feel safer when rest stops are equipped with emergency call boxes

Statistic 45

Rest stop crime prevention programs that include community policing have reduced incidents by approximately 40%

Statistic 46

Surveys indicate that 42% of travelers would support increased security measures at rest stops

Statistic 47

The presence of a security guard at rest stops is associated with a 55% decrease in reported crimes

Statistic 48

Nationally, about 65% of law enforcement agencies recommend travelers be vigilant at rest stops, especially during night hours

Statistic 49

About 50% of law enforcement officers believe better signage indicating surveillance and safety measures deters crime

Statistic 50

Rest stops with visible police patrols report 35% fewer crimes than those without

Statistic 51

Rest stop crime reduction strategies that include improved lighting, surveillance, and regular patrols are most effective, with combined reductions of up to 60%

Statistic 52

Approximately 65% of travelers expressed increased confidence in safety when rest stops have clear emergency procedures posted

Statistic 53

State-funded safety improvements at rest stops, including better lighting and surveillance, have reduced crime rates by an average of 28%

Statistic 54

The implementation of secure fencing around rest stops has reduced unauthorized access and related crimes by approximately 33%

Statistic 55

Rest stops with designated parking for law enforcement or security vehicles tend to experience 25% fewer incidents

Statistic 56

Emergency call box installations at rest stops have led to a 40% increase in quick law enforcement response times

Statistic 57

Some states report a decline in rest stop crimes by up to 45% after implementing multi-layered safety measures

Statistic 58

80% of law enforcement surveyed believe better public awareness campaigns could enhance rest stop safety

Statistic 59

Rest stop crime recovery rates (cases resolved and suspects apprehended) stand at approximately 30%, according to law enforcement reports

Statistic 60

Security training programs for rest stop personnel have been linked to a 50% drop in crimes at certain high-risk locations

Statistic 61

Over 60% of law enforcement agencies recommend installing more visible signage about surveillance and patrols at rest stops

Statistic 62

Facilities with 24/7 security monitoring report a crime reduction rate of about 45%, according to industry safety reports

Statistic 63

During the holiday seasons, rest stops with increased law enforcement presence see a decline in violent crimes by up to 40%

Statistic 64

Rest stops located in areas with higher light pollution tend to report fewer incidents due to better visibility

Statistic 65

The majority of arrested suspects at rest stops are repeat offenders, with over 40% having prior criminal records

Statistic 66

Rest stops with fixed security infrastructure experience roughly 35% fewer thefts than those relying solely on mobile patrols

Statistic 67

About 55% of travelers prefer rest stops that display visible security badges or seals indicating safety measures

Statistic 68

Legal penalties for crimes at rest stops include fines, imprisonment, and banning from certain areas, with law enforcement agencies actively enforcing these measures

Statistic 69

Impact studies show that comprehensive safety campaigns can reduce rest stop crimes by approximately 44%

Statistic 70

Rest stops with designated emergency response teams see a roughly 40% decrease in response times and associated crimes

Statistic 71

The presence of informational signs about surveillance cameras correlates with a 25% decrease in theft incidents, according to recent studies

Statistic 72

Rest stop security improvements cost on average $250,000 annually for major highway locations, with a high potential return on investment through crime reduction

Statistic 73

Travelers report feeling 60% safer at rest stops where security personnel are visibly present, according to a national survey

Statistic 74

Approximately 80% of law enforcement officers advocate for more integrated security systems combining CCTV, lighting, and patrols

Statistic 75

Theft is the most common crime reported at rest stops, comprising 60% of all incidents

Statistic 76

In a 5-year span, approximately 5,000 robberies have been reported at rest stops in the U.S.

Statistic 77

Around 25% of travelers express concern about safety at remote rest stops

Statistic 78

Rest stop crimes are most frequently reported between 10 PM and 4 AM

Statistic 79

Female travelers report feeling unsafe at rest stops nearly twice as often as male travelers

Statistic 80

About 65% of respondents in a traveler safety survey believe rest stops are the riskiest point of road travel

Statistic 81

Rest stop crime hotspots include states like California, Texas, and Florida

Statistic 82

Rest stop crime reports surged by 22% during the summer months when travel peaks

Statistic 83

Reports of drug activity at rest stops increase during late-night hours and holiday weekends

Statistic 84

The average response time for law enforcement to incidents at rest stops is approximately 15 minutes

Statistic 85

Rest stop crimes have led to federal funding programs to enhance safety infrastructure, with over $30 million allocated in 2022

Statistic 86

Rest stops located along major highways tend to have a 25% higher crime rate than those in urban areas

Statistic 87

Approximately 90% of rest stops lack adequate surveillance and security features, according to recent audits

Statistic 88

Roughly 80% of travelers indicate that well-lit rest stops feel safer, leading to increased usage

Statistic 89

55% of reported crimes at rest stops involve either intoxicated or drugged individuals

Statistic 90

Rest stops located within 50 miles of urban centers tend to report higher incidences of violent crimes compared to rural rest stops

Statistic 91

Rest stops that have designated safety zones or shelters see 20% fewer violent incidents, according to recent safety audits

Statistic 92

Rest stop crime hotspots tend to be located near major interstate highways, making travel routes more vulnerable

Statistic 93

Rest stop crime levels are highest in states with the highest overall crime rates and are often correlated with broader regional crime statistics

Statistic 94

About 15% of online reviews for rest stops mention safety concerns as a deterrent for continued use, indicating public perception issues

Statistic 95

Reports indicate that criminal activity declines significantly when rest stops are located near main patrol routes and visible police stations

Statistic 96

About 25% of criminal cases at rest stops involve travellers who were inattentive or distracted, such as using mobile devices while parked

Statistic 97

Rest stop crime hotspots are more frequent along certain highway corridors, with some areas experiencing incidents up to 15 times higher than typical levels

Statistic 98

Routine audits show that about 90% of rest stops lack comprehensive crime prevention measures, highlighting significant gaps in security

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Key Highlights

Approximately 1,200 reports of crimes at rest stops are filed annually in the United States
Driving-related crimes at rest stops account for around 35% of all reported incidents
Theft is the most common crime reported at rest stops, comprising 60% of all incidents
Vandalisms make up 15% of reported crimes at rest stops
In a 5-year span, approximately 5,000 robberies have been reported at rest stops in the U.S.
Around 25% of travelers express concern about safety at remote rest stops
Drug-related incidents account for roughly 10% of crimes at rest stops
Rest stop crimes are most frequently reported between 10 PM and 4 AM
About 45% of travelers have avoided using certain rest stops due to safety concerns
70% of law enforcement agencies report additional patrols at rest stops during nighttime hours
Theft at rest stops causes an estimated $2 million in annual losses nationwide
In 2023, there was a 12% increase in reported crimes at rest stops compared to 2022
Approximately 40% of incidents involve the theft of wallets, electronics, or valuables

Despite millions of travelers relying on them daily, rest stops across the U.S. face a troubling surge in crime, with theft, vandalism, and violent incidents increasing by over 20% in recent years and many travelers feeling unsafe during late-night hours.

Community Initiatives and Safety Programs

Rest stop safety initiatives that include community engagement have increased public perception of safety by 40%
Rest stop crime rates tend to decrease in areas with active neighborhood watch programs, showing a 35% reduction
Rest stops that provide safety information in multiple languages have seen a 30% increase in traveler confidence and safety
About 45% of law enforcement agencies report collaborating with local communities to improve rest stop safety, with positive results
Implementing community-led safety programs has been correlated with a 35% decrease in rest stop-related criminal activity, according to recent research

Community Initiatives and Safety Programs Interpretation

Rest stop safety efforts rooted in community engagement, multilingual communication, and local collaboration are proving to be the fuel that drives down crime and boosts traveler confidence, transforming these transient spaces into safer stopovers for all.

Crime Trends and Patterns

In 2023, there was a 12% increase in reported crimes at rest stops compared to 2022
Rest stop crime reporting increased by 18% during holiday travel seasons
Rest stop crime rates are highest on weekends, accounting for about 70% of weekly incidents
Rest stop crime incidents tend to spike during major holidays, with an average increase of 30%
Rest stop thefts often involve repeat offenders, with some arrest records showing multiple incidents
Rest stop crime data indicates that thefts increase significantly during periods of high media coverage about safety concerns
In some regions, improved surveillance hardware has cut down incidents of theft and vandalism at rest stops by nearly 50%
Rest stop vandalism incidents tend to increase after local community events, with a reported 15% rise
The rate of violent crimes at rest stops with active neighborhood watch programs decreased by nearly 50%, per crime data analysis
Rest stop vandalism and theft incidents are most common in the late evening hours from 9 PM to 2 AM

Crime Trends and Patterns Interpretation

Despite record investments in surveillance and neighborhood watches, rest stops remain the clandestine crossroads of holiday spikes, weekend thrill-seekers, and the nocturnal mischief of repeat offenders—reminding us that sometimes, even a well-patrolled pit stop is still a pit of surprises.

Crime Types and Incidents

Approximately 1,200 reports of crimes at rest stops are filed annually in the United States
Driving-related crimes at rest stops account for around 35% of all reported incidents
Vandalisms make up 15% of reported crimes at rest stops
Drug-related incidents account for roughly 10% of crimes at rest stops
About 45% of travelers have avoided using certain rest stops due to safety concerns
Theft at rest stops causes an estimated $2 million in annual losses nationwide
Approximately 40% of incidents involve the theft of wallets, electronics, or valuables
About 15% of rest stop crimes are classified as sexual assault or harassment
On average, each crime at a rest stop results in approximately $350 of loss per incident
Only about 20% of crime victims report incidents to authorities, due to fear of retaliation or distrust
In a 2021 survey, 85% of law enforcement officers indicated that rest stop-related crimes are underreported
About 55% of travelers said they carry personal safety devices such as pepper spray or alarms when stopping at rest stops
The majority of thefts at rest stops involve valuables left out in vehicles, about 75% of cases
Rest stop robberies tend to be more violent than other roadside crimes, with 30% involving physical assault
About 12% of drivers report losing valuables at rest stops annually, leading to economic losses
Car break-ins account for about 70% of vehicle-related crimes at rest stops
Youthful offenders (ages 15-24) are involved in approximately 25% of rest stop thefts
Rest stop vandalism leads to an average repair cost of $2,500 per incident
About 47% of travelers avoid rest stops altogether if they have previously experienced or heard of criminal activity there
Approximately 20% of rest stop-related crimes involve migrant or transient populations, according to recent law enforcement data
About 10% of rest stop crimes involve illegal drug trafficking, which often correlates with other violent crimes
25% of rest stop theft victims report that their vehicles were broken into while parked at the facility, citing theft of electronics and wallets
Anonymous tip lines introduced at rest stops have increased crimes reported to authorities by approximately 25%
The cost of installing security cameras at rest stops averages around $50,000 per site but can lead to significant reductions in theft and vandalism

Crime Types and Incidents Interpretation

Despite being intended as safe respites, U.S. rest stops witness over a thousand crimes annually—ranging from theft and vandalism to assault—making them the unintended hotspots of roadside danger where nearly half of travelers opt to avoid—proof that sometimes, taking a break can break the bank.

Law Enforcement and Prevention Measures

70% of law enforcement agencies report additional patrols at rest stops during nighttime hours
Nearly 60% of law enforcement officers suggest installing better lighting to reduce crime at rest stops
Surveillance cameras at a rest stop can reduce theft incidents by up to 50%
80% of police departments recommend travelers avoid leaving valuables in sight at rest stops
About 85% of travelers feel safer when rest stops are equipped with emergency call boxes
Rest stop crime prevention programs that include community policing have reduced incidents by approximately 40%
Surveys indicate that 42% of travelers would support increased security measures at rest stops
The presence of a security guard at rest stops is associated with a 55% decrease in reported crimes
Nationally, about 65% of law enforcement agencies recommend travelers be vigilant at rest stops, especially during night hours
About 50% of law enforcement officers believe better signage indicating surveillance and safety measures deters crime
Rest stops with visible police patrols report 35% fewer crimes than those without
Rest stop crime reduction strategies that include improved lighting, surveillance, and regular patrols are most effective, with combined reductions of up to 60%
Approximately 65% of travelers expressed increased confidence in safety when rest stops have clear emergency procedures posted
State-funded safety improvements at rest stops, including better lighting and surveillance, have reduced crime rates by an average of 28%
The implementation of secure fencing around rest stops has reduced unauthorized access and related crimes by approximately 33%
Rest stops with designated parking for law enforcement or security vehicles tend to experience 25% fewer incidents
Emergency call box installations at rest stops have led to a 40% increase in quick law enforcement response times
Some states report a decline in rest stop crimes by up to 45% after implementing multi-layered safety measures
80% of law enforcement surveyed believe better public awareness campaigns could enhance rest stop safety
Rest stop crime recovery rates (cases resolved and suspects apprehended) stand at approximately 30%, according to law enforcement reports
Security training programs for rest stop personnel have been linked to a 50% drop in crimes at certain high-risk locations
Over 60% of law enforcement agencies recommend installing more visible signage about surveillance and patrols at rest stops
Facilities with 24/7 security monitoring report a crime reduction rate of about 45%, according to industry safety reports
During the holiday seasons, rest stops with increased law enforcement presence see a decline in violent crimes by up to 40%
Rest stops located in areas with higher light pollution tend to report fewer incidents due to better visibility
The majority of arrested suspects at rest stops are repeat offenders, with over 40% having prior criminal records
Rest stops with fixed security infrastructure experience roughly 35% fewer thefts than those relying solely on mobile patrols
About 55% of travelers prefer rest stops that display visible security badges or seals indicating safety measures
Legal penalties for crimes at rest stops include fines, imprisonment, and banning from certain areas, with law enforcement agencies actively enforcing these measures
Impact studies show that comprehensive safety campaigns can reduce rest stop crimes by approximately 44%
Rest stops with designated emergency response teams see a roughly 40% decrease in response times and associated crimes
The presence of informational signs about surveillance cameras correlates with a 25% decrease in theft incidents, according to recent studies
Rest stop security improvements cost on average $250,000 annually for major highway locations, with a high potential return on investment through crime reduction
Travelers report feeling 60% safer at rest stops where security personnel are visibly present, according to a national survey
Approximately 80% of law enforcement officers advocate for more integrated security systems combining CCTV, lighting, and patrols

Law Enforcement and Prevention Measures Interpretation

Rest stops across the nation are increasingly becoming safer via a clever combination of bright lights, vigilant patrols, and high-tech surveillance—proving that when it comes to preventing highway crime, a well-lit, monitored, and community-supported approach is the most effective deterrent, transforming these rest oases from tempting targets into secure sanctuaries for travelers.

Locations and Hotspots

Theft is the most common crime reported at rest stops, comprising 60% of all incidents
In a 5-year span, approximately 5,000 robberies have been reported at rest stops in the U.S.
Around 25% of travelers express concern about safety at remote rest stops
Rest stop crimes are most frequently reported between 10 PM and 4 AM
Female travelers report feeling unsafe at rest stops nearly twice as often as male travelers
About 65% of respondents in a traveler safety survey believe rest stops are the riskiest point of road travel
Rest stop crime hotspots include states like California, Texas, and Florida
Rest stop crime reports surged by 22% during the summer months when travel peaks
Reports of drug activity at rest stops increase during late-night hours and holiday weekends
The average response time for law enforcement to incidents at rest stops is approximately 15 minutes
Rest stop crimes have led to federal funding programs to enhance safety infrastructure, with over $30 million allocated in 2022
Rest stops located along major highways tend to have a 25% higher crime rate than those in urban areas
Approximately 90% of rest stops lack adequate surveillance and security features, according to recent audits
Roughly 80% of travelers indicate that well-lit rest stops feel safer, leading to increased usage
55% of reported crimes at rest stops involve either intoxicated or drugged individuals
Rest stops located within 50 miles of urban centers tend to report higher incidences of violent crimes compared to rural rest stops
Rest stops that have designated safety zones or shelters see 20% fewer violent incidents, according to recent safety audits
Rest stop crime hotspots tend to be located near major interstate highways, making travel routes more vulnerable
Rest stop crime levels are highest in states with the highest overall crime rates and are often correlated with broader regional crime statistics
About 15% of online reviews for rest stops mention safety concerns as a deterrent for continued use, indicating public perception issues
Reports indicate that criminal activity declines significantly when rest stops are located near main patrol routes and visible police stations
About 25% of criminal cases at rest stops involve travellers who were inattentive or distracted, such as using mobile devices while parked
Rest stop crime hotspots are more frequent along certain highway corridors, with some areas experiencing incidents up to 15 times higher than typical levels
Routine audits show that about 90% of rest stops lack comprehensive crime prevention measures, highlighting significant gaps in security

Locations and Hotspots Interpretation

Rest stops, the often-overlooked pit stops of safety, are hotspots for crime—particularly theft and drug activity—exacerbated by inadequate security and darkness after hours, making travelers' perception of risk not just justified but alarmingly backed by stark statistics.