Ohio is a state with a rich history, culture, and economy. But it also has some of the most dangerous cities in the country, where violent crime rates are much higher than the national and state averages. In this article, we will reveal which town in Ohio state takes the crown for most violent, and why you should avoid it at all costs.
The Most Violent Town in Ohio: Chillicothe
Chillicothe is one of the most dangerous cities in Ohio, with a crime rate four times higher than the state average and 3.7 times higher than the national average. Despite having a population of only 22,000, the city experiences a high number of violent crimes, including a significant problem with sexual assault, which occurs at 2.8 times the national rate.
In 2023, Chillicothe reported 112 violent crimes and 1,432 property crimes. The city also faces severe drug issues, with numerous drug-related offenses and a high number of overdose deaths each year. Additionally, Chillicothe has a high poverty rate of 18%, and residents have a 1 in 13 chance of becoming victims of crime.
The Causes and Consequences of Violence in Chillicothe
There are many factors that contribute to the high level of violence in Chillicothe, such as social, economic, and environmental issues. Some of the possible causes are:
Lack of education and opportunities: Chillicothe has a low level of educational attainment, with only 16.4% of adults having a bachelor’s degree or higher. This limits the employment and income prospects for many residents, and creates a cycle of poverty and crime.
Drug and alcohol abuse: Chillicothe has a high rate of substance abuse, especially among young people. According to a 2024 report by the Ross County Sheriff’s Office, Chillicothe had 1,034 drug arrests, 276 DUI arrests, and 123 alcohol-related crashes. Drug and alcohol abuse can impair judgment, increase aggression, and fuel criminal behavior.
Gang activity and turf wars: Chillicothe has a significant presence of gangs, such as the Bloods, the Crips, and the Folk Nation. These gangs are involved in various illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, robbery, and murder. They often clash with each other over territory, money, and respect, resulting in violent confrontations and shootings.
Lack of law enforcement and community resources: Chillicothe has a limited number of police officers and community workers to deal with the crime problem. The city has a police-to-population ratio of 1.6, which is lower than the state and national averages. The city also lacks adequate funding and programs for crime prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation.
The high level of violence in Chillicothe has serious consequences for the residents and the community. Some of the negative impacts are:
Fear and insecurity: Many people in Chillicothe live in constant fear of becoming victims of crime. They avoid going out at night, walking alone, or visiting certain areas. They also have low trust and confidence in the authorities and the justice system.
Physical and mental health problems: Violence can cause physical injuries, disabilities, and deaths. It can also cause mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These can affect the well-being and productivity of the individuals and the society.
Economic and social losses: Violence can damage the infrastructure, property, and businesses in the city. It can also reduce the income, employment, and education opportunities for the residents. These can hamper the economic and social development of the city and the state.
Conclusion
Chillicothe is the most violent town in Ohio state, and one of the most dangerous places in the country. The city suffers from high rates of violent crime, poverty, and unemployment. The causes of violence are complex and multifaceted, and the consequences are devastating and far-reaching. The city needs urgent and comprehensive solutions to address the crime problem and improve the quality of life for its residents.