How bad is the crime in cleveland Ohio?

How Bad is the Crime in Cleveland, Ohio?

Cleveland, Ohio, a city located in the northeastern part of the state, has faced significant challenges when it comes to crime. Like many American cities, Cleveland has experienced a rise in violent crimes, including homicides, burglaries, and drug-related offenses. But how bad is the crime in Cleveland, Ohio, really? In this article, we’ll delve into the stats and provide an honest analysis of the situation.

Crime Rates

According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, Cleveland has reported a significant increase in crimes over the past decade. In 2019, the city reported 33,141 violent crimes per 100,000 people, which is a significant jump from 23,419 in 2011. This means that Cleveland has a higher-than-average crime rate compared to other cities of similar size.

Here is a breakdown of the violent crimes reported in Cleveland in recent years:

Types of Crime

While the overall crime rate in Cleveland is alarming, it’s essential to breakdown the types of crimes reported. According to the Cleveland Police Department, the most common types of crimes include:

• Agricultural Theft: Ohio is a major producer of agricultural products, and crop theft is a significant concern. In 2020, the Ohio State University Extension reported that crop thieves stole over $20 million worth of produce in just one year.
• Burglaries: There were 11,647 reported burglaries in Cleveland in 2019, which is a 35% increase from 2011.
• Drug-Related Offenses: Drug-related crimes are rampant in Cleveland, with drug trafficking and possession accounting for a significant portion of police activity.
• Violent Crimes: Assaults, robberies, and homicides made up 24% of all reported crimes in 2019, with an average of 18% of those being firearms-related.

Where Crime Happens

Crime is a problem throughout Cleveland, but some areas are more plagued than others. Neighborhoods with higher-than-average crime rates include:

• Gordon Square: This trendy arts district has seen a rise in crime, including theft, vandalism, and violent attacks.
• Kountze Lakes: This south-side neighborhood has been grappling with gang activity and gang-related violence.
• Central: This neighborhood near downtown Cleveland has struggled with drug-related crime and illegal activity.
• Garfield Heights: This adjacent suburb has seen a spike in burglaries and larcenies.

On the other hand, some neighborhoods in Cleveland are considered safer, including:

• Little Italy: Known for its Italian restaurants and cultural events, this charming neighborhood is relatively safe and family-friendly.
• Ohio City: This historic neighborhood has undergone significant gentrification and is considered one of the safer areas in Cleveland.
• Shaker Heights: Located just east of Cleveland, Shaker Heights is known for its affluent community and low crime rate.

Efforts to Combat Crime

Despite the challenges faced by Cleveland, law enforcement and community organizations are working together to combat crime.

The Cleveland Police Department has implemented various strategies to reduce crime, including:

• Community Police Partnerships: CPAs are community-based programs that aim to build trust between law enforcement and the community.
• Gang Unit: The Cleveland Police Department’s Gang Unit focuses on curbing gang activity and removing gang members from the community.
• Vacant Property Initiative: This initiative aims to address the issues surrounding vacant and abandoned buildings, which can serve as breeding grounds for criminal activity.

Community Organizations, such as the CLEVELAND Foundation and The Center for Prevention and Outreach, provide crime prevention programs, education, and support services to neighborhoods affected by crime.

In conclusion, while the crime rate in Cleveland is troubling, it’s essential to acknowledge the efforts being made to combat it. Law enforcement and community organizations are working together to build a safer, more just Cleveland. Residents, tourists, and businesses should prioritize awareness, community engagement, and support for crime-reduction initiatives to make the city a better place to live and visit.

Table: Cleveland Neighborhood Crime Rates (2019)

Note: Crime rates are subject to change and may not reflect the current situation. Source: Cleveland Police Department.