Vermont Criminal Justice & Crime Rates 2026
Incarceration rates, crime statistics, criminal justice reform, and political context in Vermont for 2026.
169
Incarceration Rate (per 100k)
No
Death Penalty
Legal
Marijuana Legalization
#47
Violent Crime Rate Rank
Criminal Justice Overview
Vermont abolished the death penalty and has very low crime rates. The state has legalized marijuana and pursued progressive criminal justice reform. Burlington has faced property crime increases. Vermont has the smallest prison population in the nation.
Key Criminal Justice Data
| Indicator | Status |
|---|---|
| Incarceration Rate (per 100k) | 169 |
| Total Prison Population | 1,800 |
| Violent Crime Rate Rank | #47 nationally |
| Death Penalty | No |
| Recreational Marijuana | Legal |
| Bail Reform | Reformed |
| Police Reform Legislation | Yes |
Political Context
Vermont Democrats pursue progressive criminal justice policies. Burlington and Montpelier have seen some crime increases that have created political pressure. The state has invested in treatment and prevention over incarceration.