Charles County, located in southern Maryland, boasts a population of around 160,000 and is celebrated for its rich history, picturesque parks, and waterfront communities. However, safety levels across the county vary.
Crime statistics and maps reveal disparities in crime rates among neighborhoods, with some experiencing higher incidents of violent and property crimes. The following list identifies the top five risk-prone neighborhoods in Charles County, based on 2019 crime data:
Neighborhood | Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000) | Property Crime Rate (per 100,000) |
Waldorf | 492.8 | 3,313.10 |
Bryans Road | 429 | 3,453.50 |
Indian Head | 411.9 | 2,827.90 |
La Plata | 347.8 | 2,945.30 |
St. Charles | 183.9 | 1,027.70 |
Waldorf
Waldorf stands out as the county’s most extensive and densely populated region, boasting approximately 68,000 inhabitants. Unfortunately, it also grapples with high crime rates, registering a violent crime rate of 492.8 per 100,000 individuals and a property crime rate of 3,313.1 per 100,000 residents.
Particularly, the northeastern section of Waldorf, situated around the junction of US-301 and MD-5, is notably susceptible to criminal activities, with the likelihood of falling victim as high as 1 in 23.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Cheapest Place to Live in Michigan
Bryans Road
Bryans Road, situated in the western region of the county, is a census-designated place with approximately 7,600 residents. The area has a violent crime rate of 429 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 3,453.5 per 100,000 people.
Due to its proximity to the Potomac River and the Virginia border, there is a potential for criminal activity to cross state lines. The vicinity around Indian Head Highway and Livingston Road is notably unsafe, marked by a considerable number of assaults and burglaries.
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Indian Head
Indian Head, situated in the southwestern region of the county, boasts a population of approximately 3,800 residents. The town exhibits a violent crime rate of 411.9 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 2,827.9 per 100,000 people.
Notably, Indian Head is host to the Naval Support Facility Indian Head, a military base contributing significantly to local employment. The vicinity surrounding Strauss Avenue and Potomac Heights Drive is marked by elevated risks, particularly in terms of robberies and auto thefts.
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La Plata
La Plata serves as the county seat and ranks as the second-largest town in the county, boasting approximately 9,300 residents. The town grapples with a violent crime rate of 347.8 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 2,945.3 per 100,000 people.
While La Plata stands at the heart of county governance, education, and healthcare, it confronts challenges associated with crime. Particularly, the vicinity around Crain Highway and Charles Street emerges as the most precarious, marked by a notable prevalence of incidents such as rapes and larcenies.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Frederick County, Maryland
St. Charles
St. Charles, situated in the central region of the county, is a planned community boasting a population of around 36,000 residents. While it stands out as one of the county’s fastest-growing and most diverse areas, it grapples with certain crime-related challenges.
Specifically, the vicinity near Smallwood Drive and St. Charles Parkway is identified as the most problematic, experiencing a notable frequency of both violent and property crimes. The recorded crime rates in the community are 183.9 per 100,000 people for violent crimes and 1,027.7 per 100,000 people for property crimes.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Final Words
Charles County in Maryland boasts diversity and historical significance, featuring numerous attractions and amenities. Nevertheless, like any area, there are neighborhoods with higher crime rates.
Being aware of the five riskier neighborhoods in the county empowers you to make well-informed choices regarding your residence, workplace, or places to visit.
Taking precautionary measures, like securing your doors, steering clear of dimly lit areas, and promptly reporting suspicious activities, can help mitigate the risk of falling victim to crime.
By staying informed and proactive, you can fully enjoy the attractions and advantages that Charles County has to offer, all while prioritizing your safety and well-being.
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