Arizona is a state known for its natural beauty and vibrant cities. However, not all cities in Arizona are safe for residents. One such city is Tolleson, a small city located west of Phoenix. In recent years, Tolleson has seen a significant increase in crime rates, making it one of the most dangerous cities in Arizona to live in.
Violent Crime Rates
According to the latest FBI crime report, Tolleson has a violent crime rate of 1,137.6 per 100,000 residents, which is more than double the national average of 394.5. This means that residents of Tolleson are more likely to experience violent crimes such as assault, robbery, and rape than residents of other cities in Arizona.
Property Crime Rates
In addition to violent crimes, Tolleson also has a high property crime rate of 5,183.1 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than the national average of 2,110.5. Property crimes include burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft. This means that residents of Tolleson are more likely to have their homes, cars, and personal belongings stolen than residents of other cities in Arizona.
Reasons for High Crime Rates
There are several reasons why Tolleson has such high crime rates. One reason is the city’s proximity to Phoenix, which attracts a large number of transients and criminal activity. Additionally, Tolleson has a high poverty rate, which can contribute to crime as individuals may resort to illegal activities to make ends meet.
Another reason for Tolleson’s high crime rates is the city’s lack of resources for law enforcement. The Tolleson Police Department is understaffed and underfunded, making it difficult to effectively combat crime in the city.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Improve Safety in Tolleson, Arizona
To improve safety in Tolleson, Arizona, several measures are being implemented:
1. Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP): The City of Tolleson is developing a CSAP to prioritize safety improvements and justify investment decisions within the area jurisdictions. This plan aims to significantly improve roadway safety by reducing and eliminating serious injuries and fatalities through innovative technologies, community engagement, and comprehensive crash analysis.
2. Safety Analysis: A safety analysis is being conducted to examine existing safety conditions and historical trends, providing a baseline level of crashes involving fatalities and serious injuries across Tolleson. This analysis will focus on developing recommendations for both motorized and non-motorized modes of transportation to enhance safety throughout the city.
3. AI Technology for School Safety: The Tolleson Union High School District is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance school safety. AI systems can monitor facilities, assist with student scheduling, and provide continuous surveillance to prevent incidents like fights on campus. This technology acts as an extra set of eyes to ensure the safety of students and staff.
4. Community Engagement: The City of Tolleson is actively engaging the community through initiatives like “If You See Something, Say Something®.” This encourages residents to report suspicious activities, illegal behavior, and dangerous situations promptly to the Tolleson Police Department. By fostering a collaborative approach and encouraging reporting, the city aims to preserve peace and tranquility in the neighborhood.
These measures collectively aim to enhance safety in Tolleson by addressing various aspects such as roadway safety, school security, safety analysis, and community engagement.
Conclusion
Tolleson, Arizona, is a city that has become increasingly dangerous for its residents due to high crime rates. With a violent crime rate double the national average and a property crime rate significantly higher than the national average, residents of Tolleson are at a higher risk of experiencing crime than residents of other cities in Arizona.
To combat this issue, Tolleson must invest in its police department and address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of education. By taking these steps, Tolleson can reduce its crime rates and become a safer place for its residents.