Unfortunately, there was an increase in the violent crime rate from January until June of this year. Right here is the United States, every 15 seconds a violent crime happens and every 20 minutes a murder is committed. Becoming a victim of a violent crime is something that none of us would ever imagine happening to us, but the statistics shouldn't be ignored.

According to a police chief's opinion in Los Angeles, crime is definitely on its way back. It seems to be prevalent in the youth of today - ones that have chosen to disassociate themselves from America's mainstream. Teenagers, these days, seem to shoot the victims they rob even if the victims were handing over all of their valuables.

The crimes of today seem to contain some new elements:

1. Robbers, especially in the category of juveniles, have the tendency to shoot their victims more readily even when the victims show no resistance. There seems to be a different street code today - the crime is not really a robbery unless someone is shot.

2. Shootings that occur among gangs of youth seem now to be tied to "disrespect" rather than being related to drugs or a gang infringing upon the territory of another gang. Seven people happened to get shot all in the period of only 24 hours because some girlfriends of rival gangs got into an argument. This happened in Trenton, NJ.

3. It seems that shootings and robberies are on the rise among people of the same ethnic or racial minority. It was found that approximately 33% of Boston's gun crimes happened to take place where minorities live.

Obviously, with robbery also on the increase, you want to make sure not to put yourself in harm's way by not carrying any valuables or a large stash of cash! If you find that you are being confronted by a robber, always cooperate. You may wind up getting hurt if you put up any resistance.

Since violent crimes are increasing here in the United States, how do you avoid becoming a victim? Here are some tips for females to lessen the chance of becoming sexually assaulted:

1. Make sure you have your cell phone with you and preprogram it to dial the police emergency number, normally it's 911, but it could be different. Criminal don't like prepared targets, so by having a cell phone and being prepared may help stop a possible dangerous situation.

2. Instead of your full name, use only the initials of your first name on your mail box or in the telephone directory listing.

3. Make it a habit to have someone with you, if you have to go to the laundry room of your apartment complex or when finding your car in a parking garage. Some places have security guards.

4. You should never admit that you're alone, if someone calls or knocks on your door.

5. If you need a ride home, don't accept it from someone you just met.

6. Always look inside your vehicle before getting in. Once you're in your car, immediately, lock the doors, start the engine, and leave the area.

You can never be too careful. Paying attention, trusting your instincts, and avoiding dangerous places are the basic strategies to remember. For women, it may be a good idea to take a self-defense course. By following the above tips, you may just be able to avoid being the next victim of violent crime!