Violent Crime Jumps: Highest Increase Since 1991

Violent crime in the United States increased 2.5 percent in 2005--the first increase since 2001 and the highest rate of increase since 1991, according to the FBI's preliminary annual crime report.

Homicides rose 4.8 percent overall, but some cities are seeing huge increases. Milwaukee and Cleveland's homicide rate jumped 40 percent and 38 percent, respectively.

Two theories being floated publicly for the big increase:

1. Violent gangs have gained a foothold in mid-sized cities, especially in the Mid-West. (Violent crime rates rose significantly in nearly all categories in most small-to mid-sized cities);

2. There has been a shift of law enforcement resources away from high crime areas to fight terrorism since 9-11.