Is Kansas City high crime?

Is Kansas City High Crime?

Kansas City, Missouri, and its neighboring city, Kansas City, Kansas, have been struggling with high crime rates in recent years. The question on everyone’s mind is: Is Kansas City high crime? In this article, we will delve into the statistics, trends, and factors contributing to the city’s crime problem to provide a comprehensive answer.

Crime Rates in Kansas City

According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, Kansas City, Missouri, reported a total of 28,456 crimes per 100,000 residents in 2020, making it one of the top 10 most violent cities in the United States. Kansas City, Kansas, reported a similar rate of 27,541 crimes per 100,000 residents.

Murder and Homicide

Kansas City, Missouri, had 148 homicides in 2020, a 25% increase from the previous year. Kansas City, Kansas, reported 52 homicides, a 30% increase from 2019. These numbers are staggering, and the trend is alarming.

Thefts and Property Crimes

Burglaries, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle thefts are among the most common property crimes in Kansas City. In 2020, Kansas City, Missouri, reported 14,114 burglaries, 36,415 larcenies, and 7,351 motor vehicle thefts. Kansas City, Kansas, reported 6,441 burglaries, 15,114 larcenies, and 3,041 motor vehicle thefts.

Drug-Related Crime

Drug addiction and drug-related crime are significant contributors to the city’s crime problem. According to the Missouri Department of Public Safety, drug-related crime is the leading cause of property crime in Kansas City. The Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department reported that 70% of all crimes are drug-related.

Youth Crime

Juvenile crime is a major concern in Kansas City. According to the Missouri Department of Public Safety, 44% of all arrests in Kansas City, Missouri, are for individuals under the age of 18. Kansas City, Kansas, reported a similar rate of 42% of all arrests being for individuals under the age of 18.

Racial Disparities

Racial disparities in crime rates and policing practices are a significant issue in Kansas City. According to the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department’s 2020 Annual Report, African Americans make up 28% of the city’s population but 82% of all arrestees. In Kansas City, Kansas, African Americans make up 20% of the population but 63% of all arrestees.

Efforts to Combat Crime

The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department and the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department have implemented various initiatives to combat crime. These include community policing strategies, crime prevention programs, and partnerships with local non-profits and community organizations.

Table: Crime Rates in Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas, are experiencing high crime rates, with significant increases in murder and non-negligent manslaughter, theft, and property crime. Racial disparities in crime rates and policing practices are a major concern. Efforts to combat crime, including community policing and crime prevention programs, are underway, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of crime and improve public safety.

Recommendations

• Increase funding for community-based programs aimed at reducing drug addiction and addressing the root causes of crime.
• Implement community policing strategies and work to build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
• Address racial disparities in crime rates and policing practices through data-driven approaches and policy changes.
• Invest in crime prevention programs, including youth programs and job training initiatives, to reduce the likelihood of involvement in criminal activity.
• Work to address the root causes of poverty and economic inequality, which are significant contributors to crime.

By acknowledging the complexity of the crime problem in Kansas City and working together to address its root causes, we can make progress towards a safer, more equitable community for all.