Henrico County, situated in Virginia, is a dynamic and diverse region with a population exceeding 330,000 residents. Renowned for its historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural splendor, the county offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
Nevertheless, like any community, it faces challenges, particularly in the realm of crime. This article delves into the five neighborhoods deemed the most precarious in Henrico County, drawing insights from the latest crime statistics of 2020.
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Property Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
| Montrose | 192 | 22 | 170.1 |
| East Highland Park | 110 | 13 | 96.4 |
| Sandston | 109 | 10 | 99 |
| Lakeside | 110 | 12 | 97.8 |
| Highland Springs | 73 | 9 | 64.6 |
Montrose
In 2020, this community experienced a total of 1,345 reported crimes, leading to a crime rate of 192.1 per 1,000 residents. Within this figure, there were 154 instances of violent crimes, translating to a rate of 22 per 1,000, while property crimes accounted for 1,191 cases, resulting in a rate of 170.1 per 1,000.
Montrose, originally established as a worker village during World War I, evolved into a suburban neighborhood. It was acquired by the Richmond and Fairfield Railway Company and named after its president, Oliver J. Sands.
Montrose exhibits a notably high crime rate, particularly in the category of property crimes, and boasts a relatively low median home value of $186,781.
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East Highland Park
In 2020, this locality documented 1,536 offenses, resulting in a crime rate of 109.6 per 1,000 residents. Within these cases, 186 were violent crimes (13.3 per 1,000), while 1,350 were property crimes (96.4 per 1,000).
East Highland Park is an urban community characterized by a significant African American population, constituting 84.21% of its residents. Additionally, the neighborhood has a relatively high percentage of divorced individuals at 24.8%, and a median home value of $162,800, which is comparatively low.
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Sandston
In 2020, this neighborhood experienced a total of 1,085 reported crimes, resulting in a crime rate of 108.5 per 1,000 residents. Out of these incidents, 95 were classified as violent crimes, equating to a rate of 9.5 per 1,000 residents, while 990 were property crimes, indicating a rate of 99 per 1,000 residents.
Sandston, established in 1890 by Edmund S. Read as a streetcar suburb of Richmond, is characterized by its suburban setting. The neighborhood derived its name from Oliver J. Sands, the president of the electric street railway line that connected Richmond to the Seven Pines National Cemetery.
Known for its moderate crime rate, Sandston sees a higher prevalence of property crimes compared to violent crimes. The median home value in the area is also moderate, standing at $338,845.
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Lakeside
In 2020, Lakeside, an urban neighborhood established in the 1890s by Edmund S. Read, reported a total of 1,210 crimes, yielding a crime rate of 109.9 per 1,000 residents. Out of these, 133 were violent crimes, with a rate of 12.1 per 1,000, while 1,077 were property crimes, resulting in a rate of 97.8 per 1,000.
Named after the natural springs in the area, Lakeside maintains a moderate overall crime rate, with a higher incidence of violent crimes compared to property crimes.
The neighborhood boasts a substantial median home value of $338,845. Additionally, Lakeside is characterized by a diverse population, including a notable 3.9% of same-sex couples and 3.9% of Vietnamese speakers.
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Highland Springs
In 2020, Highland Springs, an urban neighborhood developed in 1890 by Edmund S. Read, reported a total of 1,096 crimes, yielding a crime rate of 73 per 1,000 residents.
Among these incidents, 127 were classified as violent crimes, equating to a rate of 8.5 per 1,000 residents, while 969 were categorized as property crimes, resulting in a rate of 64.6 per 1,000 residents.
Named after the numerous springs in the area, Highland Springs boasts a low overall crime rate, with property crimes being more prevalent than violent crimes. Additionally, the neighborhood has a relatively modest median home value of $162,800.
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To Conclude
Henrico County, characterized by its vibrancy and diversity, confronts a pressing issue: disparate crime rates among its neighborhoods. The spotlight on Montrose, East Highland Park, Sandston, Lakeside, and Highland Springs reveals distinct challenges and levels of vulnerability.
Montrose and East Highland Park struggle with higher crime rates, while Sandston and Lakeside strike a balance, and Highland Springs stands out for its comparatively lower crime rate.
Recognizing the factors behind these differences is imperative. Socioeconomic indicators, such as median home value and population demographics, point to potential links between poverty, limited opportunities, and increased crime. Historical context and community dynamics also contribute significantly.
In conclusion, this summary encapsulates key article insights, stresses the importance of further investigation, and paints a hopeful picture of Henrico County’s potential transformation. It leaves readers with a sense of empowerment, encouraging active participation in bringing about positive change.
