Grafton County, situated in the picturesque state of New Hampshire, boasts scenic landscapes and a rural ambiance. It is home to Dartmouth College and various natural attractions. Nonetheless, like any community, it is not immune to crime.
As per the FBI Uniform Crime Report for 2023, Grafton County documented 35 index crimes, comprising three violent crimes and 32 property crimes.
About Grafton County
Grafton County, situated in New Hampshire, is the second-largest county in the state. With a population of approximately 91,000 people, it boasts a median income of $73,755.
The county is known for various natural and cultural attractions, including the White Mountain National Forest, Dartmouth College, and the Old Man of the Mountain.
Apart from that, the overall crime rate in the county is below the state and national averages; however, certain neighborhoods exhibit a higher susceptibility to criminal activity than others.
Here are the top five most hazardous neighborhoods in Grafton County, determined by the frequency and nature of reported crimes in each area.
Lebanon
Lebanon, situated in Grafton County, holds the status of being the largest city, boasting a population of approximately 13,500 residents. As the county seat, it serves as a central hub for healthcare, education, and commerce.
However, Lebanon faces a challenge as it registers the highest count of violent crimes in the county, reporting two rapes and one robbery in 2023.
Furthermore, the city experienced 11 burglaries, 12 incidents of larceny theft, and one motor vehicle theft, placing it as the second-highest in property crimes within the county. The calculated crime rate per 1,000 residents for Lebanon was 2.59, exceeding the county’s average of 0.39.
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Plymouth
Plymouth, a town with approximately 6,800 residents situated along the Pemigewasset River, is renowned as the home of Plymouth State University, a public institution boasting over 4,000 students.
Despite its academic prominence, Plymouth faces a notable challenge in terms of property crimes, recording 14 larceny thefts and one motor vehicle theft in 2023.
The town’s crime rate, calculated per 1,000 residents, stands at 2.21, surpassing the county’s average of 0.39. Notably, Plymouth experienced one reported rape in 2023, making it the sole town, alongside Lebanon, to register a violent crime in the county.
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Haverhill
Haverhill, situated near the Vermont border, is a town with approximately 4,600 residents and holds the distinction of being the oldest town in Grafton County, established in 1763.
Despite its rich history and an appealing downtown area, Haverhill faces a notable challenge with a relatively high incidence of property crimes. In 2023, the town reported seven burglaries and two instances of larceny theft.
The town’s crime rate, calculated per 1,000 residents, stood at 1.96, surpassing the county’s average of 0.39. Additionally, Haverhill reported one motor vehicle theft in 2023, joining Lebanon and Plymouth as the only towns in the county to experience this particular type of crime.
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Canaan
Canaan, situated in the Mascoma Valley and home to approximately 3,900 residents, is a rural and agricultural community marked by numerous farms and orchards.
Despite its picturesque setting, the town faces a notable issue with property crimes. In 2023 alone, there were six reported burglaries and three instances of larceny theft.
The town’s crime rate, calculated at 2.31 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpasses the county’s average of 0.39. Additionally, Canaan stands out as the sole town in the county to report an arson case in 2023.
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Enfield
Enfield, a town with approximately 4,600 residents situated along the shores of Mascoma Lake, is a favored spot for fishing, boating, and camping.
Despite its recreational appeal, Enfield grapples with a notable issue – it holds the highest rate of property crimes in the county. In 2023, the town reported 10 burglaries and 11 instances of larceny theft.
The crime rate in Enfield, calculated per 1,000 residents, stands at 4.57, surpassing the county’s average of 0.39. Additionally, Enfield recorded one motor vehicle theft in 2023, placing it among the four towns in the county reporting this type of crime.
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Conclusion
Grafton County offers a picturesque and serene environment for living, working, and visiting. Nevertheless, certain areas within the county exhibit higher rates of crime and violence.
The five neighborhoods mentioned earlier are identified as having the highest incidence of reported crimes, varying in type.
It’s important to note that these neighborhoods boast positive qualities and attractions, and they may not necessarily pose inherent risks to residents and visitors. To minimize the risk of falling victim to crime, it is advisable to stay vigilant, take necessary precautions, and promptly report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
References: StateRecords.org, New Hampshire Crime Statistics
