St. Landry Parish, situated in Louisiana, boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. However, it grapples with some of the highest crime rates within the state.
According to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program, in 2019, there were a total of 905 reported crimes in St. Landry Parish, comprising 160 violent incidents and 746 property-related offenses.
Certain neighborhoods within the parish have a higher susceptibility to criminal activity. As such, it’s important for both residents and visitors to be mindful of these risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Here, we outline the five neighborhoods in St. Landry Parish that exhibited the highest levels of crime in 2019, drawing from data provided by the US Census and Bestplaces.
Opelousas
Opelousas, the parish seat and the third oldest city in Louisiana, unfortunately holds the distinction of being the most dangerous city in the state.
The total crime rate in Opelousas is 259% higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 2,370 incidents per 100,000 people. In 2019 alone, the city recorded five murders, 17 robberies, and 236 burglaries.
Founded by French colonists in 1720, Opelousas is steeped in history as the third oldest city in Louisiana. Notably, it is also the birthplace of Zydeco music, a unique blend of Cajun, Creole, blues, and rhythm and blues genres.
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Eunice
Eunice, situated in St. Landry and Acadia parishes, boasts the Cajun Music Hall of Fame and Museum. However, the city faces a notable issue with high crime rates, particularly in property-related offenses.
In 2019, Eunice reported a total crime rate that was 147% above the national average, with a property crime rate of 5,534 incidents per 100,000 residents.
Notably, there were one recorded homicide, 14 robberies, and 224 burglaries during that year. Recognized as the Prairie Cajun Capital of Louisiana, Eunice takes pride in its cultural heritage, hosting events like the World Championship Crawfish Etouffee Cook-off, the Cajun Music Festival, and the Experience Louisiana Festival.
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Sunset
Sunset, located in St. Landry Parish, falls within the Opelousas-Eunice Micropolitan Statistical Area. In 2019, Sunset experienced a total crime rate that was 143% higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 1,057 incidents per 100,000 people.
Throughout that year, the town saw one homicide, two robberies, and 28 burglaries. Sunset is renowned for its historic structures and vintage stores, making it a popular destination for antique enthusiasts.
Additionally, the town hosts the yearly Sunset Herb and Garden Festival, as well as the monthly Sunset Art Walk, further solidifying its reputation as a hub for art and gardening aficionados.
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Port Barre
Port Barre, situated at the confluence of Bayou Courtableau and Bayou Teche in St. Landry Parish, experiences a total crime rate that surpasses the national average by 139%.
The property crime rate stands at 4,453 incidents per 100,000 residents. Notably, the town recorded no homicides or robberies in 2019, but did report 63 burglaries.
In addition to its safety concerns, Port Barre serves as the starting point for the Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge Paddle Trail, offering a 135-mile waterway with captivating views of wildlife and wetlands.
The town is also renowned for hosting the annual Cracklin Festival, a celebration dedicated to the beloved local treat of fried pork rinds.
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Krotz Springs
Krotz Springs, located in St. Landry Parish along the Atchafalaya River, experiences a total crime rate 136% higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 1,029 per 100,000 residents.
In 2019, there were no recorded murders or robberies, but the town did experience nine burglaries. Despite these statistics, Krotz Springs maintains a small and welcoming community atmosphere.
This town is a favored spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts due to its access to numerous lakes and bayous. Moreover, Krotz Springs hosts the annual Krotz Springs Sportsmen’s Heritage Festival, a lively event featuring music, delectable cuisine, games, and a fishing competition.
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Final Words
Here are the five neighborhoods with the highest crime rates in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana. Despite having cultural and historical significance, they present a safety concern for both residents and visitors. Therefore, those residing in or visiting these areas should exercise constant vigilance and caution.
