Newton County is a part of southwest Missouri with about 58,648 residents as of 2020. Its main city is Neosho, and the largest one is Joplin. This county is in the Joplin metropolitan area and has a vibrant history and culture.
Just like anywhere else, Newton County has some areas where crime and violence occur more frequently. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources, here are the five neighborhoods in Newton County, Missouri, with higher crime rates.
Joplin
Joplin is a city in both Jasper and Newton counties, with a population of 52,001 as of the 2020 census. It serves as the central point for the area’s economy and culture, but it also faces higher crime rates compared to Newton County averages.
According to FBI data from 2019, Joplin had a violent crime rate of 606.3 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 7,261.8 per 100,000 residents. These figures exceed the national averages of 366.7 for violent crimes and 2,109.9 for property crimes.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Logan County, Oklahoma
Granby
Granby, a town in Newton County, had about 2,259 people in 2018. It’s recognized for its mining history and the yearly Old Mining Town Days festival.
Unfortunately, Granby experiences more crime compared to other Newton County cities. In 2018, according to the FBI, there were 238.1 violent crimes and 3,381 property crimes for every 100,000 residents. These numbers are higher than the state averages of 519.4 and 2,540.6 respectively.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Worst Neighborhoods in Park County, Wyoming
Neosho
Neosho, in Newton County, is a city with around 11,878 residents as of 2019. It’s recognized for its historic sites like the Neosho National Fish Hatchery and Big Spring Park.
Yet, Neosho faces higher crime rates compared to other Newton County cities. In 2019, according to the FBI, there were 240.1 violent crimes and 3,262.7 property crimes per 100,000 residents, which are above the state averages of 519.4 and 2,540.6 respectively.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Enid, Oklahoma
Seneca
Seneca, a town in Newton County, had 2,336 residents in 2019. It’s recognized for its Native American roots and hosts an annual Pow Wow festival.
Yet, Seneca faces a higher crime rate compared to neighboring cities in Newton County. In 2019, the FBI reported 217.7 violent crimes and 1,814.2 property crimes for every 100,000 residents. These figures surpass the state averages of 519.4 and 2,540.6, respectively.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Kenai, Alaska
Diamond
Diamond is a town in Newton County, with about 941 people living there according to the 2019 census. It’s famous for being the birthplace of George Washington Carver, a well-known African American scientist and educator who has a national monument near the city.
But, compared to other towns in Newton County, Diamond unfortunately has a higher crime rate. In 2019, the FBI reported 108.3 violent crimes and 758.4 property crimes for every 100,000 residents, which is above the state averages of 519.4 and 2,540.6 respectively.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Underrated Neighborhoods in Marshall County, Alabama
Conclusion
Newton County, Missouri, is rich in history, culture, and diversity. However, there are certain neighborhoods that experience more crime than others, as shown by statistics and reports. The five areas with higher crime rates in Newton County are Joplin, Granby, Neosho, Seneca, and Diamond.
These neighborhoods see more incidents of violent and property crimes compared to state and national averages. Common offenses include assault, robbery, burglary, theft, and arson.
Certain parts within these neighborhoods, like downtown areas, east and west sides, pose higher risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential dangers and take necessary precautions when in or around these areas. While Newton County is a wonderful place to live and visit, it’s important to acknowledge its challenges as well.
