DUBLIN, Ireland: Newly published Garda crime figures reveal shifting trends across a range of offences in the first six months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. While overall property crime and violent disorder continue to decline, notable increases were recorded in sexual offences and economic crime.

Reports of rape rose by four percent, and sexual assault reports increased by seven percent compared to the first half of 2024. In contrast, reports relating to child sexual abuse material and associated offences fell by 16 percent.

Between January and June, An Garda Síochána made over 37,000 arrests, brought more than 67,000 charges, and issued nearly 100,000 summonses. Long-term trends continue to show reductions in overall recorded crime, according to Gardaí.

The data show a 14 percent decline in criminal damage offences excluding arson. However, arson reports rose sharply by 20 percent. Public order offences were up eight percent. Demonstrations recorded in the first half of the year fell slightly, from 683 in 2024 to 627 in 2025, though Gardaí noted that the frequency of such gatherings appears to be climbing again.

Possession of offensive weapons was up by two percent, while discharges of firearms increased by 39 percent—though Gardaí clarified this amounted to fewer than 20 additional incidents across the country.

Drug possession for sale or supply rose by 10 percent. Fraud and economic crimes saw the most dramatic increase, up 73 percent compared to the first half of 2024. Specific rises were recorded in forgery (200 percent), deception (178 percent), shopping and online auction fraud (166 percent), money laundering (82 percent), bogus tradesman scams (57 percent), accommodation fraud (22 percent), and account takeover fraud (18 percent).

Meanwhile, some categories fell: counterfeit currency cases dropped by 88 percent, and insurance fraud reports declined by 45 percent.

As of August 15, road collisions had caused 105 deaths—six fewer than during the same period in 2024. Intoxicated driving arrests rose by eight percent, and Gardaí issued significantly more penalty points for dangerous driving behaviours, including mobile phone use, seatbelt non-compliance, and speeding.

Overall, property crime decreased across all categories. Thefts and robberies directly from individuals fell by 24 percent, robberies from businesses were down 23 percent, and non-aggravated residential burglaries dropped by 13 percent.

Crimes against the person also fell slightly, while incidents of affray, riot, and violent disorder declined by 36 percent.

The provisional figures highlight a complex picture: while traditional property crimes and violent disorder are in decline, sexual offences and financial fraud are on the rise, presenting new challenges for Garda enforcement.