London's Crime Drop: A Reality Check

London's murder rate took a big drop in 2025, hitting a low not seen in years. The city recorded 97 homicides, which is fewer than the previous year and the least since 2014. When you look at the numbers per person, London's rate is the lowest it's been since they started keeping track in 1997. This news comes as a surprise to some, especially those who have been saying London is a dangerous place. US President Donald Trump has been one of the loudest voices claiming crime is out of control in the city. But the numbers tell a different story. London's rate is lower than Paris, New York, and Berlin. Mayor Sadiq Khan isn't happy with the way some politicians and commentators have been talking about his city. He says they're spreading false information and painting a picture of London that isn't true. Khan believes London is a great city, full of diversity and success.But it's not all good news. While murder rates are down, other crimes like phone snatching and shoplifting are on the rise. Many Londoners have noticed these smaller crimes happening more often. A survey found that overall crime went up by 7% in the year leading up to March 2025. Some people are worried about how this information, or misinformation, is spreading online. Mark J. Hill, a lecturer at King's College London, studies how social media posts about violence in London can shape people's behavior. He says these posts might be making people think twice about visiting the city. Khan is concerned that people who don't know London well might believe the negative things they see online. He wants them to know that London is a safe and successful city, not the dystopian place some people are making it out to be.