Illinois has a lot of history, different cultures, and a strong economy. But, like any place, it deals with crime and violence, especially in some cities. According to recent FBI data, Mount Vernon, a small town with about 14,000 people, is considered the most dangerous city to live in Illinois.
Why is Mount Vernon So Dangerous?
Mount Vernon has a high rate of violent crime, about 1,760 incidents per 100,000 people. This is three times higher than the national average and twice the state average. Violent crimes include things like murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. In 2019, the city reported 10 murders, 29 rapes, 66 robberies, and 179 aggravated assaults.
The property crime rate in Mount Vernon is also a cause for concern, standing at 6,271 incidents per 100,000 residents. This is more than double the national and state averages. Property crimes involve burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft.
In 2019, there were 433 burglaries, 786 larcenies, and 92 motor vehicle thefts reported in the city.
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Causes and Consequences of Mount Vernon’s Crime Problem
Mount Vernon faces various challenges leading to its crime issues, including poverty, joblessness, drug problems, gang involvement, and limited education.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Mount Vernon’s poverty rate is 28.5%, nearly double the state average of 14.4%. The city’s unemployment rate is 6.3%, higher than the state’s 5.5%, and its drug overdose death rate is 31.8 per 100,000 residents, surpassing the state average of 23.8.
Gang violence, marked by shootings and homicides, is part of Mount Vernon’s history. The city’s educational attainment is also low, with only 16.5% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the state’s 35.6%.
This high crime rate adversely affects Mount Vernon’s quality of life, public safety, and economic growth. Residents live in constant fear, facing the daily risk of becoming crime victims.
The crime problem deters businesses and investors, concerned about property loss and customer safety. Mount Vernon also spends more on law enforcement and criminal justice, reducing funds available for essential public services and infrastructure.
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Possible Solutions to Mount Vernon’s Crime Problem
Solving Mount Vernon’s crime problem isn’t easy or quick. It needs everyone—government, police, community, and social service providers—to work together. Some ideas include:
1. More Police in High-Crime Areas:
Increase police presence and resources, especially in high-crime areas, to stop and prevent crimes and catch offenders.
2. Community Policing and Outreach:
Start programs where police connect with residents, build trust, and work together to address community issues.
3. Education and Jobs:
Provide more education and job opportunities for both young people and adults. This helps reduce poverty, gives a chance for a better life, and keeps people away from gangs and crime.
4. Drug Prevention and Treatment:
Improve programs to prevent drug use, reduce the supply of illegal drugs, and help those addicted to recover and rejoin society.
5. Community Involvement:
Encourage residents to get involved in community activities. This helps build a sense of belonging, responsibility, and encourages reporting and resisting crime, as well as supporting victims and witnesses.
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Conclusion
Mount Vernon tops the list as the riskiest city to live in Illinois, based on FBI data. The city faces a significant number of violent and property crimes, influenced by different social and economic factors.
The crime issue has severe impacts on both the city and its residents, calling for a united effort from everyone involved. If Mount Vernon addresses the crime problem promptly and efficiently, it has the chance to transform into a safer and more prosperous community.
