Calcasieu Parish is a southwestern Louisiana county with approximately 203,000 residents. Within its borders lies the city of Lake Charles, along with various smaller towns and communities.
While certain parts of Calcasieu Parish offer safety and tranquility, others grapple with elevated levels of crime and violence. Presented here are the five most dangerous neighborhoods in Calcasieu Parish, determined by recent crime data and statistics.
Marksville
Calcasieu Parish, located in southwestern Louisiana, houses approximately 203,000 residents. The county encompasses the city of Lake Charles, along with various smaller towns and communities.
Though certain parts of Calcasieu Parish are tranquil and secure, others grapple with elevated levels of crime and violence. Presented below are the five neighborhoods with the highest crime rates in Calcasieu Parish, as determined by recent crime data and statistics.
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Natchitoches
Natchitoches, situated in northwestern Louisiana, is renowned for its Creole heritage and architectural significance. Established in 1714, it holds the distinction of being the oldest enduring settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory.
Despite its cultural richness and allure, Natchitoches is noted for having a high level of safety concerns, ranking among the most perilous areas in both Calcasieu Parish and Louisiana.
With a violent crime rate of 1,247 incidents per 100,000 individuals, this figure surpasses the national average by more than fourfold.
Additionally, property crime is prevalent, with a rate of 7,055 incidents per 100,000 people, which is more than double the national average. Residents of Natchitoches confront a 1 in 14 likelihood of falling victim to criminal activities.
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Leesville
Leesville, situated in central Louisiana near the Texas border, serves as the parish seat of Vernon Parish and is home to Fort Polk, a significant military installation.
Regrettably, Leesville ranks as one of the more perilous cities in both Calcasieu Parish and Louisiana as a whole. The violent crime rate stands at 1,263 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is over four times the national average.
Property crime is also prevalent, with a rate of 7,144 incidents per 100,000 people, more than twice the national average. As a result, residents of Leesville face a 1 in 14 likelihood of becoming a crime victim.
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Alexandria
Alexandria, the largest city in central Louisiana and the seat of Rapides Parish, serves as a vital hub for healthcare, education, and commerce in the region.
Yet, it’s important to note that Alexandria also contends with a high crime rate, making it one of the riskier areas in both Calcasieu Parish and Louisiana. The violent crime rate stands at 1,381 per 100,000 people, significantly surpassing the national average by over five times.
Additionally, property crime is prevalent, registering at a rate of 7,667 per 100,000 people, which is more than twice the national average. This means that residents of Alexandria have a 1 in 13 chance of falling victim to a crime.
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West Monroe
West Monroe, located in northeastern Louisiana and situated across the Ouachita River from Monroe, is part of the Monroe metropolitan area. It has a population of approximately 12,000 residents.
Regrettably, West Monroe holds the unfortunate distinction of being the most unsafe city in both Calcasieu Parish and the state of Louisiana. The city reports a violent crime rate of 1,462 incidents per 100,000 people, surpassing the national average by more than fivefold.
Property crime is similarly concerning, with a rate of 9,038 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is more than three times higher than the national average. Shockingly, residents of West Monroe face a daunting 1 in 11 chance of falling victim to a crime.
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Final Words
In summary, Calcasieu Parish is a dynamic and multicultural region in Louisiana. However, it’s worth noting that it encompasses some of the most hazardous neighborhoods not only in the state but also in the nation.
These areas exhibit elevated levels of both violent and property crimes, creating a significant concern for the safety and welfare of its inhabitants and guests.
Hence, it is crucial to be mindful of these risks and implement necessary precautions when residing or visiting these neighborhoods. Alternatively, individuals might contemplate moving to more secure locations within or beyond the parish. This decision could lead to an improved quality of life and a greater sense of security.
