Mohave County, located in northwestern Arizona and boasting a population exceeding 200,000, stands as a vast and varied region. Housing natural marvels like the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River, along with historical and cultural gems like Route 66, the Hoover Dam, and the Oatman ghost town, the county offers a rich tapestry of attractions. However, amidst the scenic beauty, not all is idyllic.
Certain areas grapple with issues of crime, violence, and social challenges, rendering them unsafe and unappealing for both residents and visitors. This article aims to explore Mohave County’s five most perilous neighborhoods, drawing insights from the latest crime statistics and reports.
Colorado City
This little town near the Utah border boasts the highest violent crime rate in the county, reaching 1,419.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. Colorado City, located in Mohave County, Arizona, gained notoriety for its polygamous community associated with the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).
Former members and law enforcement agencies have accused the FLDS of engaging in child abuse, human trafficking, and various other criminal activities.
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Kingman
This city, serving as both the county seat and the largest in the area, is home to approximately 32,000 residents. However, it faces a significant challenge with a violent crime rate of 326.8 per 1,000 residents, well above the national average of 22.7. Its location along Interstate 40 and Route 66 makes it an attractive hub for criminals, including drug traffickers and gangs.
Kingman, situated in Mohave County, Arizona, derives its name from Lewis Kingman, an engineer associated with the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. Positioned 105 miles (169 km) southeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, and 180 miles (290 km) northwest of Phoenix, Kingman has a rich history.
During World War II, Kingman was a notable site for a U.S. Army airfield. Subsequently, it transformed into a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its attractions along Route 66 and its proximity to the Grand Canyon.
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Bullhead City
Bullhead City, situated along the Colorado River in Mohave County, Arizona, is home to approximately 39,000 residents. The city contends with various issues, including a high violent crime rate of 318.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, as well as challenges such as poverty, unemployment, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Bullhead City’s proximity to Laughlin, Nevada, plays a significant role in its economy, as the casinos and related services in Laughlin contribute substantially to employment opportunities in Bullhead City.
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Dolan Springs
This rural community, situated near Lake Mead National Recreation Area and housing approximately 2,000 residents, holds the highest property crime rate in the county, standing at 4,385.6 incidents per 1,000 residents.
The area faces challenges due to insufficient law enforcement and public services, contributing to issues of isolation, neglect, and decay.
Positioned on the border with California in close proximity to the Hoover Dam, Dolan Springs lacks significant industries or attractions, aside from a few gas stations and motels lining Highway 93.
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Fort Mohave
This is a Census Designated Place (CDP) situated in the southern region of the county, boasting a population of approximately 14,000 residents. The property crime rate stands at 2,758.9 per 1,000 residents, making it susceptible to offenses like theft, burglary, trespassing, and vandalism.
Originally designated as Camp Colorado, Fort Mohave was founded by the U.S. Army during the Mohave War in 1859. Positioned on the east bank of the Colorado River near Beale’s Crossing, it is situated in the present-day northwestern part of Mohave County.
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How Does Mohave County Compare to Other Counties in Arizona?
Mohave County has a lower crime rate compared to other counties of similar size. The table below provides a comparison of crime rates in counties with similar overall populations within their boundaries.
When focusing solely on the crime rate, Mohave County is safer than the average for the state of Arizona and also safer than the national average.
| County | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate |
| Mohave | 20.3 per 1,000 | 42.8 per 1,000 |
| Pima | 23.4 per 1,000 | 46.9 per 1,000 |
| Maricopa | 23.6 per 1,000 | 47.7 per 1,000 |
| Yavapai | 25.5 per 1,000 | 44.6 per 1,000 |
| Coconino | 26.4 per 1,000 | 43.9 per 1,000 |
Final Words
Although Mohave County showcases breathtaking natural beauty and historical importance, it contends with localized crime and social difficulties. Colorado City, Kingman, Bullhead City, Dolan Springs, and Fort Mohave stand out as the top five risk-prone neighborhoods, each grappling with unique challenges spanning violent crimes to property offenses.
Despite these obstacles, Mohave County’s overall crime rate stays below both state and national averages. It is essential to tackle the underlying causes of crime and introduce effective social programs to guarantee the safety and welfare of all Mohave County residents.
