| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Sparta/100k people | Tennessee/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 116 | n/a (estimate) | 2,374 | 2,624 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.9 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 20.5 | 37.4 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 58.4 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 5 | n/a | 102.3 | 488.6 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 6 | n/a (estimate) | 123 | 592 | 359 |
| Burglary | 9 | n/a | 184.2 | 251.8 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 96 | n/a | 1,964.4 | 1,443.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 5 | n/a | 102.3 | 336.7 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 110 | n/a (estimate) | 2,251 | 2,032 | 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 Sparta is 12% higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 6 violent crimes reported in Sparta, equivalent to 123 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 65.8%. Additionally, Sparta recorded 110 property crimes, amounting to 2251 per 100,000 people, higher than the national average by 27.9%.
When assessing the total crime rate in Sparta per 100,000 people, it stands in the median range among all cities with reported crime data. Our analysis of total incidents, encompassing both violent and property crimes within Sparta, underscores the close alignment of reported crime rates with the national average as reported by other areas.
In the most recently reported crime year, Sparta 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 is the prevailing sentiment among Sparta residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 8 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 25% of Sparta residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 75% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To determine if Sparta is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Sparta has a total crime rate that is 12% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.32 daily crimes (0.02 violent daily crimes and 0.3 daily property crimes) in Sparta.
Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Sparta crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Sparta has decreased by 10.1% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 50% and property crime has decreased by 12%.
Sparta reports an unemployment rate of 5.9%, contrasting with the national average of 4.9%. Constrained employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-paying positions can contribute to elevated rates of unemployment and underemployment. Areas where individuals contend with joblessness or insufficient wages may display heightened susceptibility to an increase in criminal activities attributed to economic insecurity. Conversely, regions characterized by robust employment rates often witness a decrease in overall Sparta crime rates.
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 Sparta, there are 3.19 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.
Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Sparta, the average monthly rent stands at $932, while the national average is $1,444 per month.
| Item | Sparta | Tennessee | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 16 | 11,551 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.2 | 3.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Tennessee /100K | National /100K |
| Tennessee | 24,578 | 412 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Spencer, TN | 1,443 | 128 | 639 | 766 |
| Monterey, TN | 2,927 | 364 | 1,311 | 1,676 |
| Cookeville, TN | 34,916 | 293 | 1,662 | 1,954 |
| Doyle, TN | 609 | 832 | 2,857 | 3,689 |
| Sparta, TN | 5,117 | 123 | 2,251 | 2,374 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Lakeport, CA | 5,117 | 1,180 | 1,818 | 2,998 |
| Sugarcreek, PA | 5,116 | 149 | 384 | 534 |
| Raeford, NC | 5,115 | 110 | 1,432 | 1,543 |
| Post, TX | 5,122 | 482 | 2,526 | 3,008 |
| Dellwood, MO | 5,122 | 483 | 2,028 | 2,511 |
| Sparta, TN | 5,117 | 123 | 2,251 | 2,374 |
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