Los Angeles is an energetic and varied city that draws in millions of visitors annually. Yet, similar to any significant urban area, it contends with its fair share of crime and violence.
Certain neighborhoods in LA are more secure than others, while some are advisable to avoid entirely. This article will delve into five high-risk neighborhoods that it’s advisable to steer clear of when residing in or visiting Los Angeles.
These areas exhibit elevated crime rates, subpar living conditions, and social issues that render them hazardous and unwelcoming locales.
Skid Row
This district is situated in downtown Los Angeles and is recognized for its significant homeless population and elevated crime levels. As per Areavibes.com, Skid Row exhibits a crime rate that is 357% above the national average. Specifically, the violent crime rate is 1,059% higher, while the property crime rate is 290% higher compared to the national average.
Compton
Compton, located in South Los Angeles, is known for its prevalent issues of gang violence and poverty. It stands out as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States, exhibiting a crime rate that surpasses the national average by 375%.
The violent crime rate in Compton is notably high, being 1,033% above the national average, while the property crime rate is 256% higher. Despite certain positive elements like cultural diversity and community initiatives, Compton is generally considered unsafe and not recommended for outsiders to visit.
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Chinatown
Chinatown, located in downtown LA, is a vibrant area rich in history and culture, featuring numerous eateries, stores, and events. Unfortunately, it’s also known as one of the most perilous neighborhoods in LA, boasting a crime rate 305% above the national average.
Specifically, the rates for violent crimes are 1,010% higher, and for property crimes, 206% higher compared to the national average.
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South Los Angeles
South Los Angeles encompasses various neighborhoods like Watts, Crenshaw, and Inglewood, constituting a sizable and diverse region. Unfortunately, it stands out as one of the more crime-infested areas in LA, exhibiting a crime rate 238% higher than the national average.
The violent crime rate surpasses the national average by a staggering 1,055%, while the property crime rate is 135% higher than the national average.
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Westlake
Westlake, located in central LA, is a densely populated and economically disadvantaged neighborhood. It is unfortunately known for being one of the least safe areas in Los Angeles, exhibiting a crime rate that surpasses the national average by 182%.
Specifically, the violent crime rate is astonishingly 1,050% higher than the national average, while the property crime rate is 101% higher.
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Official’s Efforts to Reduce Crime in These Areas
Various initiatives have been undertaken by officials to curb crime in these neighborhoods, including:
1. The nationwide Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, which brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, community leaders, and stakeholders to identify and address violent crime issues comprehensively.
2. The Real Public Safety Plan, a comprehensive strategy by Governor Newsom to combat and prevent crime in California. The plan emphasizes new investments to strengthen local law enforcement response, ensure accountability for perpetrators, and remove guns and drugs from the streets.
3. Project INTERCEPT, a pre-filing diversion initiative led by the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office, handling all misdemeanor cases citywide. The initiative aims to minimize the adverse consequences of justice system involvement while maintaining neighborhood safety.
4. The Office of Community Safety, established by Mayor Bass to prevent crime through community-led approaches, promoting safety and well-being by investing in these efforts and the individuals leading them.
5. The Safer Cities Initiative, launched by former Mayor Villaraigosa, targeting high-crime areas in LA with increased police presence and social services. This initiative focused on a specific area, Skid Row, covering less than 1 square mile (2.6 km²) in downtown LA.
To Conclude
Although Los Angeles boasts undeniable vibrancy and diversity, there are specific neighborhoods that present notable safety concerns. This article identified five high-risk areas characterized by elevated crime rates and social issues.
Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that sweeping generalizations can be misleading. Not every part within these neighborhoods is equally unsafe, and concerted efforts are being made to address crime and enhance the overall quality of life.
It’s essential to bear in mind that safety is a collective responsibility. By acknowledging the challenges faced by particular neighborhoods and actively supporting the ongoing initiatives aimed at improvement, we can contribute to creating a safer and more inclusive Los Angeles for everyone.
