Arizona is known for its beautiful weather, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cities. However, a recent report highlights that several cities in the state are among the most dangerous in the country. This article will explore the four Arizona cities that have made it to the list of the most dangerous cities in America, focusing on Tolleson, Globe, Holbrook, and Winslow.
Tolleson: High Property Crime Rates
Tolleson, a city in Maricopa County, Arizona, is known for its high crime rate. With a population of 7,216, the city has a crime rate of 13,374 per 100,000 people, which is 470% higher than the national average. This means residents have a 1 in 8 chance of experiencing a crime. Because of frequent theft, many residents use home security devices.
Globe: High Violent Crime Rates
Globe is one of the most dangerous places to live in Arizona. Located in Gila County, it has a crime rate of 8,311 per 100,000 people, which is 254% higher than the national average. With a population of 7,249, residents have a 1 in 13 chance of becoming a crime victim. The decline in the mining industry has led to high unemployment and poverty, which drive the city’s crime rate.
Holbrook: High Property Crime Rates
Holbrook is a small town in Navajo County, Arizona, with a population of 5,000. Despite being close to national parks and landmarks, it has a high crime rate. The crime rate is 7,120 per 100,000 people, which is 204% above the national average. Residents have a 1 in 15 chance of being a crime victim. In 2021, there were 61 violent crimes and 313 property crimes in Holbrook.
Winslow: High Property Crime Rates
Winslow is famous for its old-west charm and attracts many tourists. However, visitors should stay near the tourist areas because of the city’s high crime rate. Winslow has a population of 9,655 and a crime rate of 4,861 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 107% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 21 chance of being a crime victim. In 2022, there were 145 violent crimes and 395 property crimes in Winslow.
What Are the Main Factors Contributing to the High Crime Rates in These Cities
The main factors contributing to the high crime rates in Tolleson, Globe, Holbrook, and Winslow, Arizona, are multifaceted and involve various social, economic, and environmental factors. Here are some key factors that contribute to the high crime rates in these cities:
1. Poverty: High poverty rates are a significant factor in these cities. For example, Tolleson has a poverty rate of 34.5%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 13.5%[1]. Poverty is linked to increased crime rates, as individuals struggling financially are more likely to engage in criminal activities to support themselves.
2. Education: Low education rates also contribute to high crime rates. Cities like Holbrook and Winslow have lower high school graduation rates, which can lead to higher rates of unemployment and increased likelihood of criminal behavior.
3. Unemployment: High unemployment rates, particularly in cities like Globe, can contribute to increased crime rates as individuals without stable employment may turn to criminal activities to support themselves.
4. Climate: High temperatures, which are common in Arizona, have been linked to increased violent crime rates. This is because high temperatures can lead to increased irritability and aggression among individuals, which can contribute to violent behavior.
5. Law Enforcement: While a higher budget for law enforcement can help reduce crime rates, it is not a guarantee. Cities like Paradise Valley, which has a high police budget, are still considered safe, while cities like Show Low, which has a lower budget, have higher crime rates.
6. Community Factors: The strength of a jurisdiction’s law enforcement agency is also important. Cities with more police officers and a higher budget for law enforcement tend to have lower crime rates.
These factors are interconnected and can have a compounding effect on crime rates. Addressing these underlying issues through a combination of economic development, education, and community engagement can help reduce crime rates in these cities.
Conclusion
Arizona is known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities, but a recent report highlights that several cities in the state are among the most dangerous in the country. Tolleson, Globe, Holbrook, and Winslow are four cities that have made it to the list of the most dangerous cities in America. These cities have seen significant increases in both violent and property crime rates, making them areas to avoid for safety.