Decatur, TN Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Decatur, TN

The Decatur crime rates are 77.8% higher than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 24 violent crimes in Decatur (1458 per 100,000 people), which is 294.3% higher than the national average and there were a total of 44 property crimes (2673 per 100,000 residents) which is 36.8% higher than average.

Decatur has a crime rate of 4131 per 100,000 people, which surpasses the national average by 77.75%, leading to one of the highest total crime rates in the United States. Addressing this issue is vital for improving overall safety and desirability of Decatur. Efforts to reduce crime through community engagement, effective law enforcement, and collaborative initiatives are essential to create a more secure and appealing environment for residents and prospective newcomers alike.

Decatur ranks among the bottom 10% of all U.S. cities reporting violent crime, earning its reputation as one of the nation's most dangerous areas. With a violent crime rate of 1458 per 100,000 people, Decatur is considered one of the most unsafe cities in America. This statistic translates to a 1 in 69 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Decatur, underscoring the need for increased safety measures and community engagement to improve the city's security.

In the most recently reported crime year, Decatur registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Decatur?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Decatur residents. Out of the respondents (5 in total), 100% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Decatur were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 0% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Decatur a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Decatur, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Decatur presents a total crime rate that is 78% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Decatur experiences an average of 0.19 daily crimes, comprising 0.07 violent incidents and 0.12 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Decatur Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Decatur. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Decatur has increased by 54.6%. Violent crimes have increased by 242.9%, while property crimes have increased by 18.9%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Decatur

Decatur has a population density of 424.7 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Decatur crime rates.

In Decatur, the cost of living is 17.93% lower than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.

Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Decatur, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 3.11 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.

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