Virginia State Police: Drug arrests are up 18% according to 2023 crime figures

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia State Police has released the latest crime figures across the Commonwealth for 2023 which reports an 18% increase in drug arrests.

Police report there have been 35,273 drug/narcotics and equipment violations, including attempts that have been reported by contributing agencies last year.

Officials say 17,064 arrests were made for drug/narcotics and equipment violations during the same time period.

The number of those arrested for drug arrest charges under the age of 18 has increased by 51% between 2022 and 2023.

The division’s Data Analysis and Reporting team has also released seizures of cocaine and crack cocaine reporting an increase of 43% and 29% respectively. Narcotic seizures have increased by 42%

Below are to figure tables of data detailing the number of drug crimes by location and criminal activity type.

To access 2023’s full crime report, click here .

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