According to 24/7 Wall St.,” the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) reported that violent crime increased in over 50% of the most violent cities in America when comparing 2011 to 2010 figures. In eight out of 10 of the cities cited as the most violent, burglary rates also increased. We’ve tracked down the 10 most dangerous cities based on burglaries and other crime, and investigated what makes them so violent.
10. Stockton, California (skyline pictured above)
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 14.1
What makes it so violent?
Cities that have high violent crime rates also tend to have high unemployment and poverty rates. Stockton’s unemployment rate was 20.2% for the year 2011, making it more than twice the national average, which is 8.9%.
9. Baltimore, Maryland
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 14.2
What makes it so violent?
Baltimore has the sixth-highest murder rate of any U.S. city with a population above 100,000, and its police department may face detrimental cutbacks. With high rape and aggravate assault incidents, it’s a city that has plenty of room to improve.
8. Atlanta, Georgia
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 14.3
What makes it so violent?
The rate of property crime is particularly high in this southern city, boasting nearly 80 incidents per 1,000 people and making it one of the highest rates among cities with a population of 100,000 or more.
7. Birmingham, Alabama
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 14.8
What makes it so violent?
Property crimes are a major problem in Birmingham. In fact, it’s ranked among the top five cities for property crimes in the U.S. and burglary is especially rampant. Yet, in hopes of trimming the budget, city officials announced the layoff of nearly 150 sheriff department employees.
6. Little Rock, Arkansas
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 14.9
What makes it so violent?
From 2010 to 2011, reports of forcible rape increased from 149 to 161 and property crime increased by 708 incidents.
5. Memphis, Tennessee
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 15.8
What makes it so violent?
Aggravated assault incidents increased by 100 cases from 2010 to 2011 and a major budget shortfall may result in police layoffs.
4. Oakland, California
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 16.8download film Unfriended 2015
What makes it so violent?
Oakland has long held a reputation as a violent city, and there’s good reason for it. In addition to a staggering murder rate (the ninth highest in the country) it is the number one ranked city for incidents of robbery and motor vehicle theft.
3. St. Louis, Missouri
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 18.6
What makes it so violent?
The number of murders, robberies and assault account for St. Louis’ position as the second most dangerous city in the U.S. Despite the city’s violence, budget cuts threaten the St. Louis Police Department.
2. Detroit, Michigan
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 21.4
What makes it so violent?
A poverty rate of 32.3% and an unemployment rate of almost 20% contribute to Detroit’s violent crime rate, which is the second highest in the country. And its burglary rate ranks in the top 10 in the country. But, like many major cities, the Detroit police budget was recently slashed by 18%.
1. Flint, Michigan
Violent crimes per 1,000 people: 23.4
What makes it so violent?
With some of the highest incidents of murder, aggravated assault, burglary and arson, Flint has earned its rank as the most violent large city in the country.
More than half of the cities with the highest violent crime rates are cutting law enforcement budgets according to “24/7 Wall St.” As a result, more homeowners are taking home security matters into their own hands by investing in a home security system.
There are major benefits that come with investing in a home security system. For example, your home becomes three times less likely to be burglarized than a home without a security system and having a security system can bring you piece of mind.
There are also the financial perks of having a security system installed. When a burglar enters a home guarded by a security system, an alarm sounds and law enforcement is notified. Chances are the burglar won’t stick around long, which may minimize property loss. Considering ASecureLife reports the average loss resulting from a burglary is $1,675, a home security system is a sound investment. On top of that, you could also save up to 20% on your home insurance policy just by having a security system.
If you live in one the cities identified as the most dangerous, you may consider maximizing your home’s protection, and gaining peace of mind by investing in a quality home security system.
