Rhode Island, the smallest state in the US by land area, is known for its scenic coastline, historic landmarks, and rich culture. However, not all places in the Ocean State are equally safe and peaceful. According to the latest FBI crime data, some towns and cities in Rhode Island have higher rates of violent and property crimes than the national and state averages. Here are four of them that you might want to avoid or be extra cautious when visiting.
Woonsocket
Woonsocket is the northernmost city in Rhode Island, located along its border with Massachusetts. It is the home of CVS Health’s corporate headquarters, but also has some of the state’s highest violent crime statistics. With a population of 42,925, Woonsocket had 193 violent crimes in a year, which translates to a per-capita violent-crime rate of 449/100k.
That figure puts Woonsocket at the top of the list of the most dangerous places in Rhode Island. The city also has a high rate of property crimes, with 17.46 per 1,000 residents. Woonsocket has a particular problem with rapes, with 24 such attacks in a year.
Providence
Providence, the capital and the most populous city of Rhode Island, is a vibrant and diverse place that offers many cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. It is the home of Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design, and other prestigious institutions.
However, Providence also has a dark side, as it suffers from both property and violent crimes that exceed the national and state averages. The city had 746 violent crimes and 4,764 property crimes in a year, which correspond to rates of 3.93 and 25.17 per 1,000 residents, respectively. The crime per square mile statistic for Providence is 294, which is nearly ten times the average for Rhode Island.
Pawtucket
Pawtucket, which means “River Fall” in Algonquian, is a moderately sized city in the northeastern corner of Rhode Island. It is known for its rich industrial heritage and its role in the American Revolution. However, Pawtucket also faces some serious crime issues, as its violent and property crime rates are more than twice the state average.
The city had 324 violent crimes and 1,313 property crimes in a year, which amount to rates of 4.30 and 17.42 per 1,000 residents, respectively. The crime per square mile in Pawtucket is 185, which is much higher than the state average of 32.
Central Falls
Central Falls is the smallest city in Rhode Island by land area, with only 1.27 square miles. It is also one of the most densely populated and ethnically diverse cities in the country. However, Central Falls is not a very safe place to live or visit, as it has high rates of both violent and property crimes.
The city had 67 violent crimes and 246 property crimes in a year, which result in rates of 2.98 and 10.95 per 1,000 residents, respectively. Central Falls also has a high poverty rate of 29.9%, which is more than twice the state average of 12.8%.
Conclusion
Rhode Island is a beautiful and historic state that has many attractions and charms. However, it also has some dangerous places that have high levels of crime and social problems. Woonsocket, Providence, Pawtucket, and Central Falls are four of them that you might want to avoid or be extra careful when visiting. While these places are not necessarily off-limits, they require more caution and awareness than other destinations in the Ocean State.