Morton County is situated in the south-central region of North Dakota. With a population of around 31,000 individuals, it encompasses an area spanning 1,945 square miles. Among its notable features is the city of Mandan, ranking as the eighth-largest in North Dakota.
This city holds significance as a prominent agricultural and industrial hub. Yet, it’s important to note that Morton County contends with some of the state’s highest crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods. This article delves into the five most hazardous neighborhoods in Morton County, evaluating crime statistics, quality of life, and each area’s reputation.
1. Mandan
Serving as the county seat and the largest city within Morton County, Mandan boasts a population of approximately 24,000 residents and a median household income of roughly $68,000. Positioned across the Missouri River from Bismarck – North Dakota’s state capital and second-largest city – Mandan is renowned for its historical and cultural attractions, including Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Mandan Rodeo Days.
Regrettably, Mandan also grapples with elevated crime levels and a diminished quality of life. The city’s crime rate surpasses the national average by 95%, with a violent crime rate of 1086 incidents per 1000 residents.
The likelihood of falling victim to crime in Mandan stands at 1 in 7, encompassing offenses such as murder, rape, assault, robbery, and theft. Moreover, Mandan contends with challenges like traffic congestion, homelessness, noise pollution, and environmental concerns that impact its overall livability.
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2. New Salem
Nestled in the western portion of Morton County, New Salem is a compact city inhabited by about 900 people, with a median household income hovering around $54,000. Its location along Interstate 94 and proximity to Sweet Briar Lake contribute to its unique character.
The city is perhaps best known for the towering statue of a Holstein cow named Salem Sue, which stands on a hill overlooking New Salem. However, the city’s reputation is tarnished by its pronounced crime rates and diminished quality of life.
New Salem’s crime rate far exceeds the national average by 303%, accompanied by a violent crime rate of 2910 incidents per 1000 residents. The probability of falling victim to crime in New Salem stands at 1 in 5, encompassing offenses like murder, rape, assault, robbery, and arson.
Additionally, the city contends with poverty, overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and a lack of services, rendering it an unappealing destination.
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3. Hebron
Located in Morton County’s southwestern region, Hebron is a modest city inhabited by around 700 individuals, with a median household income of approximately $52,000. Positioned along Highway 49 and near the Green River, Hebron’s claim to fame lies in its brick industry and the annual Brick Oven Days festival.
Nevertheless, the city wrestles with elevated crime rates and compromised quality of life. Hebron’s crime rate exceeds the national average by 197%, coupled with a violent crime rate of 2143 incidents per 1000 residents.
The likelihood of becoming a crime victim in Hebron stands at 1 in 8, encompassing offenses such as murder, rape, assault, robbery, and burglary. The city’s struggles extend to poverty, unemployment, gang activity, and racial tensions, factors that mar its overall appeal as a residential or visitor destination.
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4. Glen Ullin
Situated in Morton County’s southeastern corner, Glen Ullin is a small city inhabited by approximately 800 individuals, with a median household income of roughly $51,000. Found along Highway 49 and near the Heart River, Glen Ullin celebrates its German heritage through the annual Oktoberfest celebration.
However, the city’s reputation is overshadowed by its elevated crime rates and diminished quality of life. Glen Ullin’s crime rate surpasses the national average by 145%, accompanied by a violent crime rate of 1894 incidents per 1000 residents.
The likelihood of experiencing crime in Glen Ullin stands at 1 in 4, encompassing offenses like murder, rape, assault, robbery, and auto theft. The city contends with poverty, unemployment, subpar education, limited opportunities, and drug misuse, collectively contributing to its challenging living conditions.
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5. Almont
Positioned in Morton County’s eastern part, Almont is a small town inhabited by around 100 residents, with a median household income of approximately $46,000. Situated along Highway 6 and near Square Butte Creek, Almont showcases its historic buildings and hosts the annual Old Settlers Day festival. Yet, the town’s reputation is marred by elevated crime rates and compromised quality of life.
Almont’s crime rate exceeds the national average by 122%, with a violent crime rate of 1602 incidents per 1000 residents. The likelihood of encountering crime in Almont stands at 1 in 9, covering offenses such as murder, rape, assault, robbery, and arson.
Additionally, Almont faces difficulties linked to poverty, corruption, subpar health services, a lack of amenities, and environmental challenges, all of which contribute to its undesirable status.
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Conclusion
This article highlights the five most perilous neighborhoods in Morton County based on available data and insights. It’s important to recognize that this assessment does not render these areas devoid of hope or potential for improvement. Many residents and workers in these neighborhoods are actively striving to effect positive change and enhance their circumstances.
Numerous initiatives and programs are also underway to reduce crime, enhance opportunities, and elevate the overall quality of life. Therefore, while acknowledging the challenges and risks inherent in these neighborhoods, it’s equally vital to approach them with respect and support for the ongoing efforts and achievements aimed at making a difference.
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