Pope County, located in Arkansas, has a population of 63,381 according to the 2020 census. The largest city and county seat is Russellville.
The county features a diverse landscape, with the southern part characterized by the Arkansas River Valley, including farmlands and towns. In the north, the majority of the county is covered by the Ozarks.
In terms of crime, Pope County has a rate of 42.09 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the average for U.S. counties. Nevertheless, safety levels vary across different areas within Pope County. Based on 2019 crime data, here are the five neighborhoods considered the least safe in Pope County, Arkansas:
West Russellville
This area in Pope County experiences the highest crime rate, with 475.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. Moreover, it has a notable rate of violent crimes, with 77.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, encompassing offenses like murder, rape, robbery, and assault. Situated to the west of downtown Russellville, it covers regions like Shiloh Park and West Main Street.
It houses the Arkansas Nuclear One power plant, which is the biggest employer in the county. Additionally, there are multiple parks, including Shiloh Park, which offers a disc golf course, a playground, and a pavilion. In West Russellville, the typical household income is $45,000, and the average home is valued at $125,000.
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Dover
This area in Pope County has the second-highest crime rate, with 517 crimes per 1,000 residents. The violent crime rate here is 51.4 per 1,000 residents, surpassing the county average of 30.6.
Additionally, property crime is prevalent, with 465.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This neighborhood is situated north of Russellville and encompasses places like Dover City Park and Dover Elementary School.
Throughout the year, it holds various gatherings like the Dover Days Festival, the Dover Christmas Parade, and the Dover Fireworks Show.
The town boasts a charming historic district featuring shops, dining places, and a museum. In terms of finances, the median household income in Dover is around $40,000, and the typical home value is approximately $100,000.
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Atkins
This area in Pope County ranks third-highest for crime, with 506.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. The violent crime rate is 55.9 per 1,000 residents, nearly double the county average. Additionally, the property crime rate is elevated, standing at 451 incidents per 1,000 residents.
This area is famous for its pickle production and the yearly Picklefest, drawing in thousands of visitors each May. The typical household income in Atkins is around $35,000, with homes having a median value of $80,000.
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Pottsville
This area in Pope County ranks fourth for the highest crime rate, with 321.5 crimes per 1,000 residents. The violent crime rate here is 30.6 per 1,000 residents, which matches the county’s average.
However, the property crime rate in this neighborhood surpasses the county average, with 290.9 property crimes per 1,000 residents. Pottsville has a typical household income of $50,000 and a median property value of $120,000.
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East Russellville
This area in Pope County ranks fifth for the highest number of crimes, recording 281.8 crimes per 1,000 residents. The violent crime rate is below the county average at 22.8 violent crimes per 1,000 residents.
On the other hand, the property crime rate is higher than the county average, standing at 259 property crimes per 1,000 residents. This neighborhood is situated to the east of downtown Russellville and encompasses places like Arkansas Tech University and East Main Street.
It’s near the Arkansas Tech University campus, providing academic and cultural options. The average household income in East Russellville is $60,000, with a typical home value of $200,000.
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Final Words
Here are the five most dangerous neighborhoods in Pope County, Arkansas, according to 2019 crime data. However, it’s crucial to remember that crime rates can shift and are influenced by factors like population density, economic conditions, law enforcement presence, and community engagement.
So, it’s essential to be vigilant and mindful of your surroundings when in these areas, whether you’re visiting or residing there. You can also stay updated on the latest crime statistics and maps for Pope County by visiting websites like CrimeGrade.org or BestPlaces.net.
