1. Camden, New Jersey
Once a vibrant city known for its industrial presence, Camden is now grappling with a high crime rate, especially for a small town, Jeff Cole from Fox 29 reports. This city, though often categorized as a small town, has a crime rate far exceeding what you might expect in such a compact area. Despite its picturesque waterfront and proximity to Philadelphia, Camden struggles with violent crime, including shootings and robberies. For many, the statistic-heavy reputation of Camden overshadows its cultural richness and historical significance.
Efforts have been made over the years to revitalize Camden, including improving education and healthcare. However, the crime issue remains a challenge that the city can’t quite shake. The police department is working tirelessly, but budget constraints and a lack of resources make their efforts feel like an uphill battle. Camden’s situation highlights how even historically significant towns can face struggles with crime that are difficult to overcome.
2. St. Robert, Missouri
St. Robert might seem like a quiet town tucked away in the Ozarks, but it has a surprisingly high crime rate, according to Neighborhood Scout. With a population under 6,000, its proximity to the Fort Leonard Wood military base means an influx of transient residents, some of whom get involved in criminal activities. The area’s crime rate consistently ranks higher than the national average for small towns, especially when it comes to property crimes. If you’re planning to visit, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Despite the challenges, many residents are working hard to combat the crime, with local law enforcement emphasizing community outreach. The town has a strong military presence, which could explain some of the crime trends, particularly relating to theft or assault. That said, many locals remain hopeful that increasing patrols and community programs will improve the situation. Still, St. Robert’s crime rate keeps it on the radar for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway.
3. Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Pine Bluff, a town with a population of about 40,000, may seem calm from a distance, but its crime rate has been a serious concern for years, according to I.C. Murrell from The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. The violent crime rate here is much higher than the national average, and many residents have voiced frustration about their safety. The town is dealing with issues like gang violence, aggravated assault, and car thefts. Despite being an economic hub for the surrounding area, Pine Bluff’s crime rates have kept visitors wary.
In recent years, local leadership has been focused on reducing crime and revitalizing the city through job creation and community safety initiatives. However, the lack of economic opportunities and the town’s budget limitations make significant progress tough. Pine Bluff’s crime problems are compounded by its location as an urban center in a region experiencing economic decline. As a result, Pine Bluff remains a prime example of how economic instability can fuel rising crime rates.
4. Brownsville, Texas
Brownsville may have the charm of a border town with a rich cultural history, but the crime rates here tell a different story, according to the Brownsville Police. The city, located on the southern tip of Texas, struggles with drug-related crimes, trafficking, and violent offenses. While Brownsville is often seen as a quiet town, it is frequently ranked among the higher-crime areas of Texas due to its proximity to the Mexico border. Despite its appearance as a laid-back community, it faces significant challenges in keeping crime under control.
Local law enforcement is overwhelmed by the demands of policing both cross-border crimes and the urban crime that comes with the town’s size. Economic hardships contribute to the rise in illegal activities, as many residents face poverty. Still, Brownsville is known for its community initiatives, which focus on crime prevention and youth programs. While the crime rate may paint a bleak picture, efforts are being made to curb the issue and bring back peace.
5. Bessemer, Alabama
Bessemer, a small town outside Birmingham, is not what you’d expect from a typical Alabama community. The town has a notably high crime rate, particularly when it comes to violent offenses. Many of the crimes in Bessemer are related to gang activity, theft, and aggravated assault. The local police force faces the ongoing challenge of keeping these incidents under control, often without sufficient resources to combat the scale of the problem.
However, Bessemer is not defined solely by its crime rate. Recent efforts to attract new businesses and revitalize the downtown area have shown promise in reducing crime by providing more opportunities. The town is investing in youth programs and education to break the cycle of crime for younger generations. Despite the hurdles, Bessemer is a community trying to turn the page on its troubled history.
6. Killeen, Texas
Killeen, home to the large Fort Hood military base, often appears as a sleepy small town on the surface, but its crime rate tells a different story. With a steady influx of soldiers and their families, Killeen has faced challenges with violent crimes and property offenses. Domestic violence and assault incidents, often linked to the stress of military life, contribute to the city’s reputation. The number of crimes involving soldiers and veterans has drawn attention, adding to concerns over safety.
Local authorities have taken steps to improve safety, including increasing patrols and addressing the unique challenges posed by a military community. Community outreach programs are working to ease tensions between residents and military personnel. However, the town still faces challenges, particularly in dealing with the transient population. Killeen serves as a reminder of how military towns can experience a unique set of safety issues that may surprise those unfamiliar with the area.
7. Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma
Pottawatomie County, located in central Oklahoma, may seem like a quiet, rural area, but it has faced an increase in crime in recent years. With a population just under 70,000, it is a small, tight-knit community that has been struggling with violent crime, particularly assaults and property crimes. The county’s crime rate has risen significantly due to drug-related offenses and an increasing number of burglaries and robberies. While rural areas like Pottawatomie County often have the reputation of being peaceful, crime has become a serious issue for the residents.
Local law enforcement is working to address the problem, focusing on drug abuse prevention and improving community safety. However, the county faces the challenge of limited resources and a growing population in certain areas. As the area continues to grow and attracts more residents, maintaining safety has become a major concern for local leaders. Despite the rise in crime, there is hope that stronger community involvement and more resources can help turn things around.
8. Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas, offers a mix of Southern charm and urban difficulties, including a relatively high crime rate for a town of its size. The town’s crime issues are especially notable when it comes to violent crimes, including shootings and assaults. Despite being known for its historic landmarks and cultural offerings, Little Rock grapples with persistent poverty and high unemployment, which contribute to its crime levels. The presence of gang activity and drug-related offenses further exacerbates the problem.
Efforts to reduce crime include community policing and better engagement with at-risk youth. However, many neighborhoods still struggle with the aftereffects of disinvestment and a lack of resources. As Little Rock continues to grow, it faces the challenge of balancing development with the safety of its residents. Visitors to Little Rock should stay aware of their surroundings, especially in higher-crime areas, while still enjoying the cultural vibrancy of the town.
9. Gary, Indiana
Gary, once a thriving steel town, now battles a high crime rate that overshadows its revitalization efforts. With a population of around 70,000, Gary struggles with violent crime, especially gang-related violence, and property offenses. This small town has one of the highest crime rates in the Midwest, with burglaries and assaults being the most common. Despite its challenges, Gary still retains a strong sense of community, with many working hard to improve the town’s reputation.
Local officials have acknowledged the need for more resources and better safety measures, but the city’s economic troubles make it difficult to make significant progress. The decline of the steel industry has led to job losses, which has contributed to the rise in crime. Nevertheless, Gary is making strides with local initiatives aimed at providing more opportunities and promoting safety. The city’s future may depend on finding a balance between reducing crime and restoring economic stability.
10. Flint, Michigan
Flint is known across the country for its water crisis, but its crime rate is also a significant concern. The town, while historically an industrial powerhouse, now has one of the highest violent crime rates in Michigan. Property crimes, assaults, and robberies are prevalent, and the economic struggles of the town have exacerbated these issues. With a declining population, Flint’s crime problems are compounded by a lack of resources for law enforcement.
However, Flint has been working hard to address these issues with new community policing efforts and improved social services. Many residents are hopeful that increased investment in community infrastructure and education will help reduce crime over time. Still, the city’s struggles with crime remain a reality that both locals and visitors must contend with. Flint stands as a stark reminder of how economic decline can impact public safety in even the most iconic American towns.
11. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is known for its sports culture and revitalized waterfront, but the city’s crime rate is a major concern for residents and tourists alike. Violent crime, particularly shootings, and car thefts are higher in Cleveland compared to other small towns in the state. The city’s crime hotspots are often centered around specific neighborhoods that suffer from economic disparities and a lack of resources. Though the downtown area is thriving, the surrounding areas still grapple with the reality of high crime rates.
Local authorities have taken steps to improve safety, but the challenges are still significant. Cleveland’s economic history, with the loss of major manufacturing jobs, contributes to the ongoing crime problem. While the city’s police force has implemented new programs to address safety, the results have been slow to show. Cleveland remains a town in transition, where the balance between development and crime reduction is still a work in progress.
12. Jackson, Mississippi
Jackson, Mississippi, often celebrated for its rich culture and history, faces challenges with crime, particularly violent crime. The crime rate here consistently ranks among the highest in the country for a small town. Robberies, shootings, and aggravated assaults are common occurrences in certain neighborhoods, making the city feel less safe than it might appear at first glance. Jackson struggles with poverty, unemployment, and underfunded schools, all of which contribute to the town’s crime problems.
Despite these issues, Jackson has made strides in addressing the root causes of crime through local initiatives. Community leaders are focused on expanding education and job opportunities to create safer environments. While crime is still a problem, Jackson is also known for its resilience and commitment to improving conditions for its residents. The town stands as a reminder that even in the face of challenges, there are ongoing efforts to create change.
