Missouri has a lot to offer, from peaceful state parks and museums to caves, music festivals, and famous barbeque. However, high crime rates in some areas can be a concern for both residents and visitors. This article will look at the crime rates in three Missouri cities.
St. Louis
St. Louis is the most dangerous city in Missouri and one of the worst in the US for crime, with a rate 234% above the national average. Despite its rich history and cultural attractions like the Gateway Arch and the St. Louis Art Museum, the city struggles with high levels of violent crime, including homicides and robberies.
Central St. Louis and the downtown area are especially known for high crime rates, with the Gravois Park neighborhood having a rate 323% higher than the national average.
Springfield
Springfield, Missouri’s third-largest city, has beautiful parks and a lively cultural scene. However, it is also the second most dangerous city in the state. Some neighborhoods have high rates of property crimes like burglary and theft.
On average, a crime happens every 45 minutes in Springfield. Residents also face risks of violent crimes, including assault and murder.
Nevada
Another dangerous city in Missouri is Nevada. If you’re visiting Missouri, you might not plan to go there. Although this small southeastern city has interesting historical attractions like the Bushwhacker Museum, it is one of the state’s most dangerous places to live. The crime rate in Nevada, including both violent and property crimes, is 204% higher than the national average.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Improve Safety in These Cities
The cities of St. Louis, Springfield, and Nevada in Missouri have been named among the most dangerous in the United States. To address these safety concerns, various initiatives are being implemented across these cities:
St. Louis
1. Community Safety Study: A study by the University of Missouri-St. Louis and the City University of New York Institute for State and Local Governance found that residents in St. Louis County are concerned about safety issues beyond traditional justice system responses. The study highlights the importance of addressing root social factors such as access to healthcare, education, and housing to improve community safety.
2. Neighborhood Safety Programs: The City of St. Louis offers resources to start or enhance neighborhood safety programs, including Block Captain Programs, National Night Out, and Neighborhood Watch Organizations. These initiatives aim to establish a system for residents to work together with police and other stakeholders to reduce crime and improve safety.
3. Safety Improvement Projects: St. Louis County is undertaking safety improvement projects, including road construction and infrastructure enhancements, to improve safety and reduce accidents.
Springfield
1. Community Engagement: Efforts to improve public safety in Springfield focus on community engagement and addressing root causes of crime. This includes addressing issues like poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and social inequality.
2. Neighborhood Safety Initiatives: The City of Springfield has implemented neighborhood safety initiatives such as the Block Captain Program, which empowers residents to work together with police to reduce crime and improve safety.
Nevada
1. Engineering Safety Improvements: The Nevada Department of Transportation is implementing engineering safety improvements to enhance road safety and reduce accidents.
2. Neighborhood Safety Programs: Like St. Louis, Nevada also offers resources to start or enhance neighborhood safety programs, including Block Captain Programs and National Night Out, to engage residents in crime prevention efforts.
These measures aim to address the complex social and economic factors contributing to crime and violence in these cities, ultimately working towards safer and more secure communities.
Conclusion
The inclusion of these three Missouri cities in the list of the most dangerous places in America is a concerning trend that highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address crime and improve public safety. While the crime rates mentioned may seem disconcerting, it’s important to remember that most residents and visitors in these cities experience little to no instances of crime.
By being cautious and taking necessary precautions, individuals can reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime. However, it is crucial for local authorities and community leaders to work together to implement effective measures to combat crime and create safer environments for all.