According to data compiled by the National Police of Latvia, there was a modest increase in the number of criminal offenses in 2024, with around 200 crimes reported per 10,000 residents. This uptick was particularly pronounced in urban areas like Daugavpils and Riga. The statistics also revealed a concerning rise in sexual offenses against minors, as well as an increase in the circulation of pornographic materials and sexual violence incidents, with a striking 81% of victims being minors and a similar proportion being women aged between 3 and 101 years old. In most cases, the victims were previously acquainted with their attackers.

The chief of the National Police, Armands Ruks, highlighted the disturbing nature of some of these crimes, noting cases where an attacker was as young as six years old, along with instances where one minor inflicted harm on another. The oldest reported perpetrator was an 80-year-old man, while the average age of offenders was found to be 35. Alarmingly, 93% of perpetrators in these cases were male, with many incidents occurring within the context of the online environment. Ruks's comments reflect a critical concern about the safety and protection of vulnerable groups, particularly minors, in both public and digital spaces.

This increase in crime rates and the specific types of offenses reported suggests the need for heightened awareness and protective measures within society. The authorities may need to consider implementing educational programs aimed at young people about online safety and recognizing concerning behaviors, as well as provide support services for victims. Additionally, these findings pose questions about societal attitudes towards violence and abuse, indicating a need for community engagement to address these issues comprehensively.