| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Raton/100k people | New Mexico/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 88 | n/a (estimate) | 1,476 | 3,468 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 10.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 50.3 | 53.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 50.3 | 65.3 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 22 | n/a | 369.1 | 587.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 28 | n/a (estimate) | 470 | 717 | 359 |
| Burglary | 27 | n/a | 452.9 | 500.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 24 | n/a | 402.6 | 1,750.9 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 9 | n/a | 151.0 | 499.9 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 60 | n/a (estimate) | 1,007 | 2,751 | 1,760 |
Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Raton is 30.3% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 28 violent crimes reported in Raton, equivalent to 470 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average by 30.8%. Additionally, Raton recorded 60 property crimes, amounting to 1007 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 42.8%.
During the most recently reported crime year, Raton experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.
AreaVibes surveyed 15 local residents in Raton to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 7% of people answered that there was very little crime in Raton and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 93% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.
Determining whether Raton is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Raton has an overall crime rate that is 30% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.24 daily occurrences, comprising 0.08 violent crimes and 0.16 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Raton as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Raton. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Raton has increased by 33.3%. Violent crimes have increased by 75%, while property crimes have increased by 20%. 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.
In areas where employment options are limited or where a significant proportion of jobs offer meager wages, the likelihood of heightened unemployment and homelessness increases. Regions facing challenges related to unemployment or inadequate income may become more vulnerable to a surge in crime stemming from economic instability. While low unemployment rates tend to lead to reduced crime in most areas. Raton currently has an unemployment rate of 1.1%, contrasting with the national average of 4.9%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.
The educational level within a community can have an influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of education are associated with reduced crime rates, as they offer individuals improved employment prospects and alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment tends to correspond with higher crime rates. In Raton, 77.1% of residents have achieved at least a high school diploma, which differs from the national average of 83%.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Raton, there are 3.07 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.
| Item | Raton | New Mexico | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 21 | 3,705 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.1 | 4.4 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | New Mexico /100K | National /100K |
| New Mexico | 3,129 | 155 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Raton, NM | 6,164 | 470 | 1,007 | 1,476 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Shaw Heights, CO | 6,165 | 359 | 1,958 | 2,318 |
| Maquoketa, IA | 6,163 | 249 | 1,990 | 2,239 |
| Highland, NY | 6,165 | 319 | 1,442 | 1,760 |
| East Alton, IL | 6,165 | 447 | 1,608 | 2,055 |
| Saranap, CA | 6,163 | 158 | 676 | 834 |
| Raton, NM | 6,164 | 470 | 1,007 | 1,476 |
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