North Carolina boasts various attractions, ranging from picturesque mountains to sandy beaches. Nevertheless, not all locations in the Tarheel State guarantee safety and tranquility.
Recent FBI crime data highlights certain cities in North Carolina with disturbingly elevated rates of violent and property crimes, rendering them precarious for residents.
This article will unveil the most perilous city in North Carolina, determined by the crime rates per capita, and delve into potential explanations for its crime challenges.
Based on the most recent FBI crime statistics, Lumberton is clearly the most dangerous city in North Carolina to live in.
About Lumberton City
Lumberton, located in Robeson County near the South Carolina border, is a city with approximately 18,000 residents.
Recognized for its cultural diversity, it houses the largest Native American tribe, the Lumbee, east of the Mississippi River. The annual Lumbee Homecoming festival is a notable event that celebrates the tribe’s heritage and traditions.
However, alongside its rich cultural history, Lumberton faces significant challenges. It holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest per capita rates of both violent and property crimes in the state, ranking among the top 10 most dangerous cities in the nation.
In 2023, according to FBI data, Lumberton reported 446 violent crimes and 2,086 property crimes. This translates to rates of 2,400 violent crimes and 11,230 property crimes per 100,000 residents.
Residents in Lumberton have a 1 in 27 chance of falling victim to a crime, a staggering 435% higher than the state average.
The prevalent crimes in Lumberton include aggravated assaults, burglaries, and larcenies. The city reported 361 aggravated assaults, 1,026 burglaries, and 920 larcenies in 2023.
Additionally, there were 8 murders, 16 rapes, and 61 robberies, representing the most serious violent crimes in the area.
What Causes the High Rate of Crime in Lumberton?
Certain experts attribute the elevated crime rates in Lumberton to socio-economic factors, including poverty, unemployment, low educational attainment, and drug abuse.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Lumberton exhibits a poverty rate of 33.4%, more than double the state average of 13.6%.
The median household income in Lumberton stands at $28,293, less than half of the state average of $57,341. The unemployment rate is 7.9%, exceeding the state average of 4.4%.
Additionally, Lumberton’s high school graduation rate is 77.9%, falling below the state average of 88.6%.
Another contributing factor to Lumberton’s crime challenges may be the insufficient law enforcement resources. As per the FBI, Lumberton has 1.5 police officers per 1,000 residents, below both the state average of 2.4 and the national average of 2.5.
This implies a shortage of officers for street patrols, timely response to calls, and crime prevention efforts.
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To Conclude
Lumberton’s high crime rates call for a comprehensive approach to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. While acknowledging the city’s rich cultural heritage, it is crucial to understand the factors contributing to its crime challenges and implement effective solutions.
Key steps include investing in initiatives that address poverty, unemployment, and educational disparities, along with providing ample resources for law enforcement and community-based programs.
By fostering economic opportunities, improving educational attainment, and tackling drug abuse, it is possible to disrupt the cycle of crime and pave the way for a safer and more prosperous Lumberton.
Active citizen engagement and collaboration among local authorities, community leaders, and residents are essential for shaping a future where Lumberton’s cultural vibrancy coexists with safety and security.
Effectively addressing these challenges requires a collective effort and commitment to create a brighter future for Lumberton.
