A study funded by the National Institutes of Health showed that the density of marijuana dispensaries was linked to increased property crimes in nearby areas. “Over time, as marijuana grows in popularity, densities of marijuana outlets may increase, resulting in higher crime.” said the lead author of the study and professor of social work at The Ohio State University.
Violent crime increased 18.6% and property crime increased 8.3% in Colorado since 2013 despite the fact that 65% of local jurisdictions in Colorado have banned medical and recreational marijuana businesses.