McKinley County, located in the northwestern part of New Mexico, had a population of 72,946 in 2021. Its county seat is Gallup, which is both the largest city in the county and a popular tourist destination known for its Native American culture and arts.
However, McKinley County also experiences a higher-than-average crime rate, especially when it comes to violent crimes. According to CrimeGrade.org, McKinley County ranks in the 1st percentile for safety, indicating that it is less safe than 99% of other counties and more dangerous than 1%.
The rate of violent crime in McKinley County is 22.95 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is over three times higher than the national average of 6.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. In this article, we will delve into the five neighborhoods in McKinley County with the highest rates of violent crime per capita.
Northwest Gallup
Situated in the northwest section of Gallup, this neighborhood boasts the highest rate of violent crime in the county, with 36.7 incidents per 1,000 residents.
This statistic translates to residents in this area having a 1 in 27 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime, which can include offenses like murder, rape, robbery, or assault. Several factors contribute to the elevated crime rate in this neighborhood, including poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, and gang activity.
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Central Gallup
Situated in the heart of Gallup, this neighborhood boasts the second-highest rate of violent crime in the county, tallying at 25.9 incidents per 1,000 residents.
In practical terms, this statistic implies that individuals residing in this area face a 1 in 39 likelihood of falling victim to violent crimes.
Despite its status as the city’s commercial and cultural center, offering a plethora of retail shops, restaurants, hotels, and attractions, this neighborhood unfortunately also serves as a magnet for criminals who target both tourists and local residents.
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East Gallup
This area in the eastern part of Gallup city has the third-highest rate of violent crime in the county, with 21.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This translates to a 1 in 47 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime for residents in this neighborhood.
Primarily residential, this neighborhood also features pockets of industrial and commercial activity. Additionally, it is home to a sizable Native American population, who confront various social and economic obstacles including discrimination, poverty, and limited access to healthcare and education.
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Thoreau
In the southeastern part of the county, this neighborhood stands out with the fourth-highest rate of violent crime at 18.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. This translates to a 1 in 53 chance of experiencing violent crime for the residents.
Comprising a population of approximately 1,800 individuals, this neighborhood is primarily inhabited by Native Americans. It is enveloped by the Navajo Nation and the Zuni Pueblo, boasting a vibrant cultural legacy.
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Crownpoint
Located in the northeastern section of the county, this neighborhood boasts the fifth-highest rate of violent crime in the area, standing at 17.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This translates to residents in this vicinity facing a 1 in 56 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime.
This neighborhood is a quaint town with approximately 2,600 inhabitants, predominantly consisting of Native Americans. It serves as the central hub for the Eastern Navajo Agency, housing a tribal college, a hospital, and a noteworthy historic courthouse.
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Final Words
Located in the northeastern section of the county, this neighborhood boasts the fifth-highest rate of violent crime in the area, standing at 17.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This translates to residents in this vicinity facing a 1 in 56 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime.
This neighborhood is a quaint town with approximately 2,600 inhabitants, predominantly consisting of Native Americans. It serves as the central hub for the Eastern Navajo Agency, housing a tribal college, a hospital, and a noteworthy historic courthouse.
