The primary data source for this report was the Uniform Crime Reports. The information is intended to provide government officials and the public with reliable data on reported criminal activity. Sections focus on crime index offenses, index crimes by contributors, arrests and clearances, and property losses resulting from crime. The data show that North Dakota has ranked among the four lowest States in the crime index rate from 1970 to 1979. However, the crime index has increased 67 percent during this period, with a 14 percent increase between 1978 and 1979. While an apparent increase in crime in the State's rural areas has been noted, violent crimes have been decreasing in the State as a whole, and property crimes have shown a marked increase. Maps, data tables, and diagrams are accompanied by narrative texts. Appendixes contain population data and definitions of offenses. (Author abstract modified)