Bonner County, Idaho, situated in the northern part of the state, boasts scenic landscapes and hosts approximately 47,000 residents. The county’s principal city and seat, Sandpoint, is positioned along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, the largest lake in Idaho.
Recognized for its natural allure, outdoor activities, and rural appeal, Bonner County is not uniformly tranquil and secure throughout its regions. Crime statistics sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office reveal variations in rates of violent and property crimes across different neighborhoods.
Based on 2020 data, here are the top five neighborhoods deemed the most dngerous in Bonner County, Idaho.
Ponderay
Ponderay, situated to the north of Sandpoint, is a small city boasting a population of approximately 1,100 residents. As the second-largest city in Bonner County, it serves as the county’s primary commercial center, featuring numerous retail outlets, restaurants, and hotels.
Despite its economic activity, Ponderay grapples with the highest crime rate in the county, recording 4,454.1 property crimes and 174.7 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.
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Clark Fork
Clark Fork is located to the east of Sandpoint, near the Montana border, and is home to approximately 500 residents.
Positioned at the confluence of the Clark Fork River and Lake Pend Oreille, the town has a historical background in mining, logging, and railroad operations. It is surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests.
Despite its natural beauty and historical significance, Clark Fork faces challenges in terms of crime, boasting a notable crime rate. Specifically, there are 3,333.3 property crimes and 166.7 violent crimes reported per 100,000 residents.
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Priest River
Priest River is situated to the west of Sandpoint, close to the Washington border, and has a population of around 1,700 residents. Positioned at the junction of the Priest and Pend Oreille rivers, the city serves as a gateway to the Priest Lake area, a well-liked spot for activities like fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
Despite its recreational appeal, Priest River grapples with a notable crime rate, recording 1,606 property crimes and 321.2 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.
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Sandpoint
Sandpoint holds the title of being Bonner County’s most extensive and heavily populated city, boasting approximately 8,000 residents. Serving as the county seat, it functions as the primary hub for cultural and economic activities in the region.
Situated on a slender stretch of land nestled between Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk Mountains, Sandpoint is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes, a historic downtown area, vibrant arts scene, festive events, and a prominent ski resort.
Despite these appealing features, it grapples with a notable crime rate, recording 2,085 property crimes and 180.3 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.
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Laclede
Laclede is a small, unincorporated community located south of Sandpoint, situated along the banks of the Pend Oreille River. With a population of approximately 200 people, it predominantly serves as a residential and agricultural area.
Despite its small size, Laclede faces a significant challenge with a high crime rate, recording 1,666.7 property crimes and 166.7 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.
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Final Words
These rankings highlight the five neighborhoods in Bonner County, Idaho, deemed the most perilous based on 2020 crime data. It’s crucial to note that crime rates fluctuate yearly and are influenced by diverse factors like population, demographics, law enforcement, social and economic conditions, and the environment.
It’s essential to understand that these rankings aren’t definitive and shouldn’t be the sole basis for assessing the safety or overall quality of life in any area.
Instead, consider them as a general reference and complement the information with other sources such as local news, crime reports, neighborhood watch groups, and personal experiences.
Bonner County, Idaho, is a picturesque and diverse region with numerous attractions and opportunities for both residents and visitors. Nevertheless, like any place, it faces challenges and risks.
Therefore, staying aware, informed, and prepared is crucial. Taking precautions to safeguard oneself and one’s property from crime allows individuals to enjoy the best that Bonner County offers while minimizing potential risks.
