Vermilion Parish, located in the state of Louisiana, is one of the 64 parishes in the region. Spanning an area of 1,542 square miles, it is home to a population of approximately 60,000 residents.
The parish is celebrated for its vibrant Cajun culture, picturesque bayous, and significant historical sites. However, it’s important to note that safety and tranquility levels can vary across different parts of the parish.
Within Vermilion Parish, certain neighborhoods experience higher crime rates and increased instances of violence compared to others.
In this article, we will delve into the five neighborhoods with the most pronounced safety concerns, drawing from the latest crime statistics provided by CrimeGrade.org.
Abbeville
Abbeville, situated along the Vermilion River, serves as the parish seat and the largest city in Vermilion Parish, boasting a population of approximately 12,000 residents.
This charming locale features a historic downtown area teeming with an array of shops and restaurants, and it plays host to various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Giant Omelette Celebration and the Daylily Festival.
Regrettably, Abbeville grapples with a disproportionately high crime rate in comparison to other areas within the parish. As per data from CrimeGrade.org, Abbeville’s crime rate stands at 67.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, more than double the parish’s average of 33.5 per 1,000 residents.
In terms of property crime, Abbeville registers a rate of 57.8 per 1,000 residents, surpassing the national average of 19 per 1,000 residents by over threefold.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Carbon County, Utah
Kaplan
Kaplan, located in the southwest part of Vermilion Parish, is a small city with a population of approximately 4,600 residents. It is recognized as the “Gateway to Cajun Country” and takes pride in its rich French heritage. Among its attractions are the Kaplan Museum, the Cajun Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Acadiana Sportsmen’s League Park.
However, it’s important to note that Kaplan grapples with a comparatively high crime rate when compared to other areas in the parish. According to data from CrimeGrade.org, The crime rate in Kaplan stands at 63 incidents per 1,000 residents, nearly twice the parish average of 33.5 per 1,000 residents.
In terms of property crime, Kaplan experiences 53 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is almost three times the national average of 19 per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Most Worst Neighborhoods in Sweetwater County, Wyoming
Erath
Erath is a petite town situated in the southeast corner of Vermilion Parish, with a population of approximately 2,100 residents. It lies along the banks of Bayou Tigre and boasts a historic downtown area, featuring numerous buildings that hold places on the National Register of Historic Places.
An annual Fourth of July Celebration is a major event in Erath, drawing thousands of attendees from all over the state. Nevertheless, compared to other areas in the parish, Erath experiences a notably high level of criminal activity.
As reported by CrimeGrade.org, In Erath, the crime rate stands at 71 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants, which is over twice the parish average of 33.5 per 1,000 residents. The property crime rate in Erath is even more staggering, with 61 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpassing the national average of 19 per 1,000 residents by more than threefold.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Poorest Neighborhoods in Rapides Parish, Louisiana
 Gueydan
Gueydan, situated in the northwest part of Vermilion Parish, is a quaint town with a population of approximately 1,500 residents.
It is in close proximity to the White Lake Wetlands Conservation Area and has a rich tradition of duck hunting. The town is also known for hosting the annual Duck Festival, featuring live music, carnival rides, and various duck-themed contests.
However, it’s important to note that Gueydan faces a higher crime rate compared to other areas in the parish. According to CrimeGrade.org, The crime rate stands at 75 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is more than double the parish average of 33.5 per 1,000 residents.
When it comes to property crimes, Gueydan’s rate is 65 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpassing the national average of 19 incidents per 1,000 residents by more than threefold.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Sanpete County, Utah
Maurice
Maurice, situated in the northeastern part of Vermilion Parish, is a small village with a population of approximately 1,200 residents. Positioned along Highway 167, it features a notable historical site known as the Old Town Hall Museum, which offers insights into the area’s local heritage and traditions.
The village also boasts various eateries and stores that cater to both tourists and locals. However, it’s important to note that Maurice experiences a higher rate of crime compared to other areas in the parish.
According to CrimeGrade.org, In Maurice, the crime rate stands at 101 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is more than three times the parish average of 33.5 per 1,000 residents. Specifically, the property crime rate is 91 per 1,000 residents, nearly five times the national average of 19 per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Logan, Utah
Final Words
Vermilion Parish boasts a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity, offering a range of attractions and experiences for both residents and visitors. However, it is important to acknowledge that there are areas, namely Abbeville, Kaplan, Erath, Gueydan, and Maurice, which grapple with elevated levels of crime and violence.
Individuals residing in or exploring these areas should exercise vigilance and implement precautionary measures to safeguard themselves and their belongings. By doing so, they can savor the finest aspects of Vermilion Parish without falling prey to its more challenging elements.
