Clarke County, located in the northeast part of Georgia, is home to a population of over 120,000 people. Recognized for its educational and cultural offerings like the University of Georgia, the Georgia Museum of Art, and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, the county also grapples with crime and violence.
While some neighborhoods are safer, others pose risks that both residents and visitors should be cautious of. Here are the top five neighborhoods with higher crime rates in Clarke County, as determined by crime data and assessments from multiple sources.
East Athens
Situated to the east of downtown along Lexington Road and Winterville Road, East Athens is known for its diversity and a significant population of over 10,000 residents. This neighborhood boasts various parks, schools, churches, and businesses.
However, East Athens contends with a high crime rate, surpassing the national average by 102%. Violent crime is especially prevalent, standing at 316% higher than the national average.
On average, a crime occurs every 18 minutes here. With a population density of around 2,000 people per square mile, the likelihood of falling victim to crime in East Athens might be as high as 1 in 15.
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Rocksprings
Rocksprings, situated west of downtown along Baxter Street and Milledge Avenue, was established in the late 19th century as a residential area for African Americans employed in nearby factories and mills. This neighborhood features historical sites such as Rocksprings Homes public housing complex, Rocksprings Park, and Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery.
However, Rocksprings faces elevated crime rates, exceeding the national average by 72%. The occurrence of violent crime is 184% higher than the national average, and crime incidents happen approximately every 25 minutes. With a population density of about 3,000 individuals per square mile, the likelihood of experiencing crime in Rocksprings might be as high as 1 in 19.
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Hancock Corridor
Hancock Corridor, located north of downtown along North Avenue and Hancock Avenue, originated in the early 20th century as housing for African American workers in nearby establishments. This area hosts cultural and social organizations, including the East Athens Development Corporation and the Lyndon House Arts Center.
Despite its cultural significance, Hancock Corridor contends with a crime rate surpassing the national average by 66%. Violent crime is 167% higher than the national average, and crime transpires approximately every 27 minutes. With a population density of roughly 4,000 people per square mile, the likelihood of falling victim to crime in Hancock Corridor might be as high as 1 in 21.
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West Broad
West Broad, established in the late 18th century and located west of downtown along Broad Street and Hawthorne Avenue, holds historical importance as one of Athens’ original settlements, named after the nearby Broad River. The neighborhood features landmarks like the West Broad Farmers Market and the West Broad School.
However, West Broad contends with a crime rate exceeding the national average by 59%. The violent crime rate is 150% higher than the national average, and crimes transpire around every 29 minutes. With a population density of about 2,000 people per square mile, the likelihood of experiencing crime in West Broad might be as high as 1 in 23.
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Newtown
South of downtown along Prince Avenue and Oglethorpe Avenue, Newtown was established in the late 19th century as housing for African American railroad and industry workers. The neighborhood encompasses churches, schools, businesses, and community centers.
However, Newtown experiences a crime rate surpassing the national average by 50%. Violent crime is 127% higher than the national average, and crimes occur about every 31 minutes. With a population density of around 1,000 individuals per square mile, the likelihood of encountering crime in Newtown might be as high as 1 in 25.
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Conclusion
These five neighborhoods in Clarke County, Georgia, exhibit higher crime rates based on available data. However, it’s essential to remember that crime can occur anywhere and at any time.
Remaining vigilant, being aware of your surroundings, and taking precautions such as securing doors and windows, avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas during nighttime, reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement, and considering home security systems can contribute to personal safety in these areas.
