Illinois is a state with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. However, it also has some towns that are notorious for their high crime rates and violence. Based on the latest FBI statistics, here are four Illinois destinations that are among the most dangerous towns in the US.
1. Danville
Danville is a city in Vermilion County, with a population of about 30,000. It used to be a thriving industrial center, but after the decline of coal mining and manufacturing, it faced poverty, unemployment, and social problems. Danville has a violent crime rate of 15.8 per 1,000 residents, making it the 15th most dangerous town in the US. It also has a high property crime rate of 51.2 per 1,000 residents, with over 1,500 incidents reported in 2019.
2. Rockford
Rockford is the fifth-largest city in Illinois, located on the northern border with Wisconsin. It has a population of about 145,000 and is known for its cultural and historical attractions, such as the Rockford Art Museum and the Burpee Museum of Natural History. However, Rockford also suffers from crime and violence, with a violent crime rate of 15 per 1,000 residents, ranking it as the 20th most dangerous town in the US. It also has a property crime rate of 37.5 per 1,000 residents, with over 5,400 incidents reported in 2019.
3. Centralia
Centralia is a city in Marion County, with a population of about 12,000. It is famous for its annual Balloon Fest, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. However, Centralia also has a dark side, with a violent crime rate of 14.8 per 1,000 residents, placing it among the top 25 most dangerous towns in the US. It also has a property crime rate of 55.6 per 1,000 residents, with over 650 incidents reported in 2019.
4. Wood River
Wood River is a city in Madison County, with a population of about 10,000. It is located near the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, and is home to the Wood River Refinery, one of the largest oil refineries in the US. However, Wood River also has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 14.7 per 1,000 residents, making it one of the most dangerous towns in the US. It also has a property crime rate of 46.4 per 1,000 residents, with over 450 incidents reported in 2019.
Conclusion
Illinois is a state with many attractions and opportunities, but it also has some towns that are plagued by crime and violence. These four destinations are among the most dangerous towns in the US, according to the FBI statistics. While they may have some redeeming features, they are not recommended for tourists or residents who value their safety and security.