New Mexico is a state of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance. However, it also has a dark side, as some of its towns are plagued by high rates of crime and violence. According to the FBI’s most recent crime report, New Mexico ranks as the second most dangerous state in the US, with a violent crime rate of 778 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 3,100 per 100,000 people. These numbers are well above the national averages of 368 and 2,110, respectively.
While crime can happen anywhere, some places are more prone to it than others. Based on the data from various sources, here are four New Mexico destinations that have been named among the most dangerous towns in the US.
Gallup
Gallup is a town of about 22,000 people in the northwestern part of the state, known for its rich Native American heritage and its location along the historic Route 66. However, it also has a reputation for being one of the worst places to live in New Mexico, due to its high crime rates.
Gallup has 1,992 violent crimes per 100,000 people and 6,368 property crimes per 100,000 people, making it the most dangerous town in the state and one of the most dangerous in the country. Residents of Gallup have a 1 in 58 chance of being victimized by violence and a 1 in 19 chance of being victimized by property crime.
Belen
Belen is a small town of about 7,000 people in the central part of the state, south of Albuquerque. It has a long history dating back to the Spanish colonial era, and it is home to several historic landmarks and cultural attractions. However, it also has a serious problem with crime, especially violent crime.
Belen has 2,029 violent crimes per 100,000 people and 5,243 property crimes per 100,000 people, making it the second most dangerous town in the state and one of the most dangerous in the nation. Residents of Belen have a 1 in 49 chance of being victimized by violence and a 1 in 19 chance of being victimized by property crime.
Deming
Deming is a town of about 14,000 people in the southwestern part of the state, near the border with Mexico. It is a popular stop for travelers and tourists, as it offers several attractions and amenities, such as museums, parks, golf courses, and hot springs. However, it also has a high level of crime, especially property crime.
Deming has 963 violent crimes per 100,000 people and 5,153 property crimes per 100,000 people, making it the third most dangerous town in the state and one of the most dangerous in the US. Residents of Deming have a 1 in 104 chance of being victimized by violence and a 1 in 20 chance of being victimized by property crime.
Los Lunas
Los Lunas is a town of about 16,000 people in the central part of the state, south of Albuquerque. It is a growing community that offers a variety of services and opportunities for its residents, such as schools, libraries, parks, and businesses. However, it also has a high rate of crime, especially violent crime.
Los Lunas has 1,286 violent crimes per 100,000 people and 4,074 property crimes per 100,000 people, making it the fourth most dangerous town in the state and one of the most dangerous in the country. Residents of Los Lunas have a 1 in 78 chance of being victimized by violence and a 1 in 25 chance of being victimized by property crime.
Conclusion
New Mexico is a state with many positive aspects, such as its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance. However, it also has some negative aspects, such as its high crime rates and its dangerous towns. While not all places in New Mexico are unsafe, some are more risky than others, and travelers and residents should be aware of the potential dangers and take precautions to protect themselves and their property. By doing so, they can enjoy the best that New Mexico has to offer, while avoiding the worst.