Montana Criminal Justice & Crime Rates 2026
Incarceration rates, crime statistics, criminal justice reform, and political context in Montana for 2026.
403
Incarceration Rate (per 100k)
Yes
Death Penalty
Legal
Marijuana Legalization
#25
Violent Crime Rate Rank
Criminal Justice Overview
Montana maintains the death penalty but has not executed anyone recently. The state has legalized marijuana. Rural crime including property crime and methamphetamine is a significant challenge. The state has pursued some drug court alternatives.
Key Criminal Justice Data
| Indicator | Status |
|---|---|
| Incarceration Rate (per 100k) | 403 |
| Total Prison Population | 4,000 |
| Violent Crime Rate Rank | #25 nationally |
| Death Penalty | Yes |
| Recreational Marijuana | Legal |
| Bail Reform | Traditional |
| Police Reform Legislation | No |
Political Context
Montana Republicans maintain traditional criminal justice positions. The marijuana legalization battle is settled. Some bipartisan cooperation on drug treatment and alternatives to incarceration occurs as pragmatic solutions.