Tazewell County, situated in the central part of Illinois, approximately 165 miles southwest of Chicago, is recognized for its historical significance, varied economy, and picturesque natural sites. With a population of around 131,000 individuals, it stands as the second most populous county within the Peoria metropolitan region.
Nonetheless, Tazewell County is not exempt from its share of criminal activity and violence. According to the FBI, in the year 2020, Tazewell County reported a total of 2,487 incidents, out of which 179 were classified as violent crimes and 2,308 as property crimes. This translated to an overall crime rate of 18.98 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the national average of 37.19 per 100,000 residents.
However, the safety of neighborhoods within Tazewell County isn’t uniform. Some areas experience higher instances of violent crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault compared to others. Drawing from CrimeGrade and AreaVibes data, here are the five neighborhoods deemed most hazardous within Tazewell County as of 2023:
Creve Coeur:
Creve Coeur, positioned in the northern part of Tazewell County along the Illinois River, is a village inhabited by approximately 5,451 people. This neighborhood bears a violent crime rate of 19 per 100,000 residents, slightly above the Tazewell County average and lower than the national average.
The property crime rate in Creve Coeur is notably high, reaching 1,243 per 100,000 residents, which is 46% above the Tazewell County average but 16% lower than the national average. Common crimes within Creve Coeur include theft, burglary, and vandalism.
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Pekin:
Pekin, located in the southern part of Tazewell County at the convergence of the Illinois River and the Mackinaw River, is the county seat and home to approximately 33,371 residents. The violent crime rate in Pekin is 20 per 100,000 residents, a tad higher than the Tazewell County average but lower than the national average.
The property crime rate is also elevated at 1,250 per 100,000 residents, marking a 47% increase over the Tazewell County average, yet 15% below the national average. Common crimes in Pekin encompass theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft.
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East Peoria:
Situated across the Illinois River from Peoria, East Peoria is a city inhabited by about 23,402 individuals. The violent crime rate within East Peoria is 21 per 100,000 residents, slightly surpassing the Tazewell County average while staying beneath the national average.
The property crime rate is notably elevated, standing at 1,257 per 100,000 residents, which is 48% higher than the Tazewell County average but 15% below the national average. Theft, burglary, and assault are the most commonly occurring crimes in this area.
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Marquette Heights:
Marquette Heights, located near Pekin Lake in the central part of Tazewell County, is a city inhabited by around 2,824 individuals. With a violent crime rate of 22 per 100,000 residents, it slightly exceeds the Tazewell County average while falling beneath the national average.
The property crime rate is significantly elevated, reaching 1,264 per 100,000 residents, signifying a 49% rise above the Tazewell County average and a 14% reduction compared to the national average. The prevalent crimes in this neighborhood are theft, burglary, and robbery.
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Morton:
Morton, situated along Interstate 74 in the eastern part of Tazewell County, is a village with approximately 16,267 residents. The violent crime rate in Morton is 23 per 100,000 residents, somewhat surpassing the Tazewell County average while being lower than the national average.
The property crime rate stands at 1,271 per 100,000 residents, indicating a 50% increase from the Tazewell County average and a 14% decrease from the national average. Theft, burglary, and vandalism are the primary crimes observed in Morton.
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Conclusion:
These are the five neighborhoods deemed the most perilous within Tazewell County based on the most recent available data. However, crime rates can fluctuate over time and are subject to variance based on the data source and methodology.
Hence, it’s imperative to exercise vigilance and awareness whether residing in or visiting any area. It’s also essential to acknowledge the positive attributes and attractions within Tazewell County that outweigh the negative aspects. The county’s vibrancy and diversity offer a multitude of opportunities and experiences for its inhabitants and visitors alike.
