Owensboro, Kentucky, a city with a population of approximately 60,000, has been identified as one of the most violent cities in Kentucky based on the latest FBI crime data. The city’s violent crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, with 36.8 incidents per 100,000 people compared to 22.7 nationwide.
Violent Crime in Owensboro
In Owensboro, the chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime is 1 in 272, which equates to a rate of 4 per one thousand inhabitants. This rate is higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America. The violent crimes tracked in Owensboro include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, with a total of 221 incidents reported in 2022.
Property Crime in Owensboro
In addition to violent crime, Owensboro also has a high rate of property crime. The chance of becoming a victim of a property crime in Owensboro is one in 29, which is a rate of 34 per one thousand population. This rate is also higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America. The property crimes tracked in Owensboro include burglary, larceny over fifty dollars, motor vehicle theft, and arson. In 2022, there were 2,070 incidents of property crime reported in Owensboro.
Comparing Owensboro to Other Cities in Kentucky
When comparing Owensboro to other cities in Kentucky, the city’s violent crime rate is significantly higher than the state average. According to a report by SafeWise, which analyzed FBI crime data, Owensboro is not among the top 20 safest cities in Kentucky. In fact, the report found that there were no murders reported by Kentucky’s 20 safest cities, while Owensboro had a total of 3 murders reported in 2022.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Reduce Crime in Owensboro, Kentucky
To address the high crime rate in Owensboro, Kentucky, various measures are being taken by the Owensboro Police Department and the community.
The Owensboro Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit provides a range of programs aimed at reducing criminal opportunity and involving citizens in crime prevention efforts. These programs include children and adult safety programs, robbery prevention, sexual assault prevention, gang and drug prevention/awareness programs, and the highly successful Citizens Police Academy (CPA).
The CPA provides attendees with a basic understanding of the various operational components of the police department, and the Juvenile Diversion Program is a five-phase intervention plan for juveniles in grades five through twelve who are referred by the court or school resource officers.
In addition to the programs provided by the police department, the community is also taking steps to reduce crime in Owensboro. The Eye on Owensboro initiative encourages citizens to help police deter and solve crimes by providing tips and information. The initiative has been successful in solving crimes and reducing criminal activity in the community.
Furthermore, the Owensboro Police Department has identified neighborhood neglect as a factor that invites crime and encourages citizens to organize cleanups and work with local government to get abandoned buildings and vacant lots fixed up. This proactive approach to improving conditions in the community can help reduce crime and create a safer environment for residents.
While these measures are being taken to reduce crime in Owensboro, it is important to note that the city still has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes. The crime rate in Owensboro is significantly higher than the state average, and the violent crime rate is also higher than the national average. Therefore, continued efforts are necessary to address the root causes of crime and create a safer community for all residents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, based on the latest FBI crime data, Owensboro, Kentucky, has been identified as one of the most violent cities in the state. The city’s violent crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, and the property crime rate is also higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America.
When comparing Owensboro to other cities in Kentucky, the city’s violent crime rate is significantly higher than the state average. It is important for residents and visitors to be aware of these statistics and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.