Garfield County, situated in western Colorado with a population of approximately 25,000 people, boasts natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historic mining towns.
Nevertheless, like any locale, Garfield County grapples with its own set of crime and safety concerns. This article delves into the crime statistics of Garfield County, highlighting the five neighborhoods deemed most perilous based on reported crime numbers and types.
As per the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s data, Garfield County recorded a total of 240 crimes in 2017, encompassing 41 violent crimes and 199 property crimes. Violent crimes, comprising murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, and sex offenses, contrast with property crimes, which include burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
In 2017, Garfield County exhibited a crime rate of 407.56 per 100,000 population, lower than the national average of 739.02. Nonetheless, it’s essential to note that not all neighborhoods within the county guarantee safety.
Differences in crime rates across neighborhoods may stem from various factors like population density, socioeconomic status, resource accessibility, and law enforcement presence. To provide insight, we have ranked the neighborhoods in descending order based on their total reported crime numbers.
| Neighborhood | Population | Violent Crimes | Property Crimes | Total Crimes |
| New Castle | 2,858 | 78 | 902 | 980 |
| Silt | 2,092 | 311 | 622 | 933 |
| Rifle | 9,306 | 388 | 2,259 | 2,647 |
| Glenwood Springs | 9,781 | 269 | 4,677 | 4,946 |
| Carbondale | 5,688 | 129 | 1,109 | 1,238 |
- New Castle: This area is home to approximately 2,858 residents and is situated roughly 10 miles south of Glenwood Springs. In 2017, it recorded a total of 78 violent crimes and 902 property crimes, earning the distinction of being the most perilous neighborhood in Garfield County.
- Silt: This community, situated approximately 15 miles west of Glenwood Springs, is home to around 2,092 residents. In 2017, it recorded a total of 311 violent crimes and 622 property crimes, earning it the distinction of being the second most hazardous neighborhood in Garfield County.
- Rifle: This community, with approximately 9,306 residents, is situated roughly one hour south of Glenwood Springs. In 2017, it recorded a total of 388 violent crimes and 2,259 property crimes, earning it the designation as the third most hazardous neighborhood in Garfield County.
- Glenwood Springs: This town, situated near Aspen and home to approximately 9,781 residents, is positioned at the junction of two rivers. In the year 2017, it recorded a total of 269 violent crimes and 4,677 property crimes, earning it the designation as the fourth most hazardous city in Garfield County.
- Carbondale: This urban area is home to approximately 5,688 residents and is situated roughly one hour southwest of Glenwood Springs. In the year 2017, there were a total of 129 violent crimes and 1,109 property crimes reported, ranking it as the fifth most hazardous city in Garfield County.
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To Conclude
Garfield County exhibits a lower overall crime rate than the national average; however, there are notable differences in crime levels among its neighborhoods.
New Castle, Silt, Rifle, Glenwood Springs, and Carbondale all experience varying degrees of violent and property crime, emphasizing the necessity for a nuanced approach to safety measures.
Recognizing the factors that contribute to these disparities, such as population density, socioeconomics, and resource availability, is essential for developing effective interventions.
Moreover, fostering collaboration among communities, law enforcement, and social services is crucial to addressing the specific challenges unique to each neighborhood.
By acknowledging the variations within Garfield County and working towards tailored solutions, the entire community can progress towards a safer and more secure future for all residents.
