Delaware is a small state with a population of about one million people. It is known for its chemical manufacturing industry and its lenient tax law. However, it also has a high crime rate, ranking twentieth in the nation for violent and property crimes. One city in particular stands out as the most dangerous and the most involved in drug trafficking: Seaford.
Seaford: The Most Dangerous City in Delaware
According to the FBI crime report for 2023, Seaford is the most dangerous city in Delaware, with a crime index of 1 out of 100, meaning it is only 1% safer than other neighborhoods in the country. The violent crime rate in Seaford is 9.82 per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate is 50.42 per 1,000 residents.
The chances of becoming a victim of violent crime in Seaford are 1 in 102, compared to 1 in 238 in Delaware. The chances of becoming a victim of property crime in Seaford are 1 in 20, compared to 1 in 51 in Delaware.
Seaford has a population of 8,516, and its demographics are as follows:
- White Americans: 57.1%
- Black Americans: 29.9%
- Hispanic: 8.8%
- Median household income: $55,162
- Persons in poverty: 16.1%
- Unemployment rate: 6.4%
Seaford: The Hub of Drug Trafficking in Delaware
Seaford is not only the most dangerous city in Delaware, but also the hub of drug trafficking in the state. In November 2020, Delaware State Police began a large-scale drug investigation named “Operation Dawg House.” The operation targeted the George Johnson Drug Trafficking Organization, where George Johnson, 40, of Bridgeville, was identified as the organization head.
The investigation revealed that Johnson and his associates were responsible for distributing large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana throughout Sussex County, Delaware, and surrounding areas. The drugs were obtained from sources in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Baltimore, Maryland. The organization also used violence, intimidation, and firearms to protect their illegal activities.
In April 2023, Delaware State Police announced that they had arrested 28 members of the organization, including Johnson, and seized over 12 kilograms of heroin, 3 kilograms of fentanyl, 3 kilograms of cocaine, 25 pounds of marijuana, 22 firearms, and over $264,000 in cash. However, four members of the organization, including Johnson, remained at large and were considered armed and dangerous.
Conclusion
Seaford is a small city in Delaware that has a big problem with crime and drug trafficking. It is the most dangerous city in the state, with high rates of violent and property crimes. It is also the hub of a large drug trafficking organization that distributes heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana throughout the region.
The police have made significant arrests and seizures, but the leader of the organization and some of his associates are still on the run. Seaford needs more resources and support to combat the drug problem and improve the safety and quality of life of its residents.