Belknap County, situated in New Hampshire, boasts picturesque landscapes and is inhabited by around 64,000 residents. This region encompasses the well-loved tourist attraction, Lake Winnipesaukee, along with numerous historic towns and villages.
Located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Belknap County is positioned slightly southeast of the state’s geographical center. It spans a total area of 469 square miles, comprising 400 square miles of land and 68 square miles (15%) of water. The majority of the water area within the county is associated with Lake Winnipesaukee.
Comparison of Belknap County’s Crime Rate With Other Counties in New Hampshire
Based on ucr.fbi.gov, Belknap County reported a total of 1,035 crimes in 2019, making it the sixth most crime-prone county among the 10 in New Hampshire.
The crime rate in Belknap County was 1,591.8 per 100,000 population, surpassing the state average of 1,200.0. The violent crime rate was 221.4, higher than the state average of 137.1, while the property crime rate was 1,370.4, slightly below the state average of 1,062.9.
Hillsborough County ranked as the most crime-prone in New Hampshire, recording 7,784 crimes and a rate of 1,917.4 per 100,000 population in 2019. Conversely, Coos County was the least crime-prone, with 262 reported crimes and a rate of 579.5 per 100,000 population.
However, within Belknap County, safety levels vary across neighborhoods. Crime statistics and maps indicate that some areas experience higher rates of violent and property crimes. The following are the five riskiest neighborhoods in Belknap County, based on per capita crime data from CrimeGrade.org.
Laconia
Laconia, situated in Belknap County, serves as the county seat and is its largest city, boasting a population of approximately 17,000 residents.
Unfortunately, it holds the distinction of being the area with the highest crime rates in the county, reporting a violent crime rate of 223.8 and a property crime rate of 3,235.8 per 100,000 residents.
According to CrimeGrade.org, Laconia receives a C grade for overall crime, a D grade for violent crime, and a C grade for property crime.
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Tilton
Tilton, a town with approximately 3,600 residents, is situated near the intersection of Interstate 93 and Route 3. It is renowned for its outlet malls and a historic arch bridge. The town has a violent crime rate of 337.4 and a property crime rate of 5,622.7 per 100,000 residents.
According to CrimeGrade.org, Tilton receives a D grade for overall crime, a D grade for violent crime, and an F grade for property crime.
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Belmont
Belmont, with a population of approximately 7,000 people, is situated along the Winnipesaukee River. Renowned for its historical landmarks like the Belmont Mill and the Province Road Meeting House, the town has a rich heritage. However, it also poses risks, particularly in terms of violent crime.
Belmont exhibits a violent crime rate of 260.5 and a property crime rate of 1,755.1 per 100,000 residents. CrimeGrade.org assigns Belmont a D grade for overall crime, a D grade for violent crime, and a C grade for property crime.
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Gilmanton
Gilmanton, situated in the southern part of the county, is a town with approximately 3,400 residents. Recognized for its rural charm and literary significance as the setting of Grace Metalious’s novel Peyton Place, it also faces challenges, particularly in terms of violent crime.
With a violent crime rate of 186.5 and a property crime rate of 612.7 per 100,000 residents, Gilmanton receives a D grade for overall crime, a D grade for violent crime, and a B grade for property crime according to CrimeGrade.org.
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Sanbornton
Sanbornton, situated in the northern region of the county, is a town with approximately 3,000 residents. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites like the Sanbornton Square Historic District and Lane Tavern, it offers both charm and heritage. However, the town presents challenges for residents, particularly concerning violent crime.
With a violent crime rate of 134.5 and a property crime rate of 806.7 per 100,000 residents, Sanbornton receives a D grade for overall crime, a D grade for violent crime, and a B grade for property crime, as reported by CrimeGrade.org.
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Final Words
Belknap County, New Hampshire, is a beautiful and historic region with many attractions and natural wonders. However, it also has some areas that are more prone to crime than others.
These neighborhoods have higher rates of violent and property crimes than the county and state averages, and they have low grades for overall crime, violent crime, and property crime from CrimeGrade.org.
Therefore, residents and visitors of these areas should be aware of the potential risks and take precautions to protect themselves and their property.
References: ucr.fbi.gov, en.wikipedia.org. belknapcounty.gov. countryaah.com
