What is the Crime Rate in Laurel, Mississippi?
Laurel, Mississippi, a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, is also known for its relatively low crime rate compared to other cities of similar size in the United States. In this article, we will delve into the crime rate in Laurel, Mississippi, and provide an overview of the city’s safety and security.
Crime Rate in Laurel, Mississippi: An Overview
According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, which collects and analyzes crime data from law enforcement agencies across the United States, Laurel, Mississippi, has a relatively low crime rate. In 2020, the city reported a total of 1,344 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants, which is lower than the national average of 3,450 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants.
Types of Crime in Laurel, Mississippi
While the overall crime rate in Laurel is low, there are certain types of crime that are more prevalent than others. According to the FBI’s UCR data, the most common types of crime in Laurel are:
- Property Crimes: 64.5% of all crimes reported in Laurel are property crimes, including burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft.
- Violent Crimes: 35.5% of all crimes reported in Laurel are violent crimes, including murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Crime Rates by Category
Here is a breakdown of the crime rates in Laurel, Mississippi, by category:
| Category | Number of Crimes | Rate per 100,000 Inhabitants |
|---|---|---|
| Murder and Non-Negligent Manslaughter | 2 | 1.2 |
| Rape | 14 | 8.4 |
| Robbery | 21 | 12.5 |
| Aggravated Assault | 35 | 20.6 |
| Burglary | 134 | 79.1 |
| Larceny-Theft | 444 | 261.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 21 | 12.5 |
Crime Rates by Neighborhood
While the overall crime rate in Laurel is low, there are some neighborhoods that are more prone to crime than others. According to data from the Laurel Police Department, the following neighborhoods have higher crime rates:
- Downtown Laurel: This neighborhood has a higher concentration of businesses and entertainment venues, which can attract a higher volume of people and increase the risk of crime.
- East Laurel: This neighborhood has a higher poverty rate and a higher concentration of rental properties, which can contribute to a higher crime rate.
- North Laurel: This neighborhood has a higher concentration of single-family homes and a lower poverty rate, which can contribute to a lower crime rate.
Safety Tips for Visitors and Residents
While the crime rate in Laurel is relatively low, it’s still important to take precautions to ensure your safety and security. Here are some safety tips for visitors and residents:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your environment and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
- Keep valuables secure: Keep your valuables, such as purses and wallets, secure and out of sight.
- Avoid displaying wealth: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or watches, as this can attract unwanted attention.
- Stay informed: Stay informed about local crime trends and avoid areas with high crime rates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the crime rate in Laurel, Mississippi, is relatively low compared to other cities of similar size in the United States. While there are certain types of crime that are more prevalent than others, the city’s overall crime rate is lower than the national average. By taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings, visitors and residents can ensure their safety and security in Laurel.
