Penobscot County, located in Maine, is the largest county in terms of area and the third-largest in population. It encompasses numerous cities, towns, and neighborhoods that provide a range of residential options for both residents and visitors. However, safety levels can vary across different areas within Penobscot County.
According to the most recent crime data from the Maine Department of Public Safety, Penobscot County had the highest crime rate in the state in 2020, with 16.06 reported crimes per 1,000 residents.
This article will delve into the five neighborhoods in Penobscot County with the highest levels of reported crime, based on the frequency and severity of incidents. The five neighborhoods are:
Bangor
Bangor, with a population of approximately 31,000 people, serves as the county seat and is the largest city in Penobscot County. It also holds the distinction of being the area with the highest crime rate in the county, with a total of 1,794 reported crimes in 2020.
Among these, Bangor experienced 192 incidents of violent crime, including four homicides, 25 rapes, 36 robberies, and 127 assaults. This results in a crime rate of 57.9 per 1,000 residents, which is over three times higher than the county’s average.
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Old Town
Old Town, situated along the Penobscot River, is a quaint city boasting a population of approximately 7,500 residents. It’s renowned for its historical significance and picturesque river panoramas, yet it grapples with a notable crime issue.
During the year 2020, Old Town witnessed a sum of 316 reported incidents, comprising 76 instances of violent crime and 240 cases of property-related offenses. The crime rate stood at 42.1 per 1,000 inhabitants, surpassing the county average by more than two-fold.
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Millinocket
Millinocket, a small town nestled at the base of Mount Katahdin, is home to approximately 4,300 residents. While it draws outdoor enthusiasts, it also grapples with a notable crime presence.
During 2020, Millinocket saw a recorded total of 181 incidents, encompassing 29 violent offenses and 152 property-related transgressions. The crime rate in Millinocket stood at 42 incidents per 1,000 residents, a bit lower than Old Town but still more than twice the county’s average.
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Lincoln
Lincoln, situated in the center of Penobscot County, is a quaint town with approximately 5,000 inhabitants. It’s renowned for being the “Town of 13 Lakes,” but also sadly known for its elevated crime levels.
In the year 2020, Lincoln saw a total of 208 reported crimes, comprising 18 violent offenses and 190 property-related incidents. The crime rate in Lincoln stood at 41.6 per 1,000 residents, nearly matching that of Millinocket and Old Town.
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Brewer
Brewer is a petite city situated on the eastern bank of the Penobscot River, home to approximately 9,000 residents. It boasts an outstanding school system and picturesque parks, yet is also notorious for its elevated crime levels.
In the year 2020, Brewer recorded a total of 372 reported incidents, encompassing 30 instances of violent crime and 342 property-related offenses. The crime rate in Brewer stood at 41.3 per 1,000 inhabitants, a bit lower than Lincoln but still more than double the county’s average.
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Final Words
Here are the top five most dangerous neighborhoods in Penobscot County, according to the most recent crime data from the Maine Department of Public Safety.
However, it’s crucial to remember that crime rates can fluctuate annually and differ between neighborhoods within a given area. As such, it’s recommended to exercise caution and use good judgment when residing in or visiting any area in Penobscot County or elsewhere.
