North Dakota boasts stunning natural beauty, amiable residents, and a rich historical heritage. Nevertheless, when it comes to safety and tranquility, not all of its cities are created equal. According to the most recent FBI crime data, Fargo holds the unfortunate distinction of being the least safe city in North Dakota for 2023.
Fargo’s Crime Data
Fargo, the largest and most populous city in North Dakota with an estimated population of 126,748 in 2021, serves as the cultural, educational, and economic hub of the state. However, it also grapples with the highest rates of violent and property crimes among all North Dakota cities.
Fargo reports a violent crime rate of 5.20 per 1,000 residents, nearly twice the state average of 2.76 and exceeding the national average of 3.78. This category encompasses offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. In 2020, Fargo recorded 659 violent crimes, including 4 murders, 92 rapes, 107 robberies, and 456 aggravated assaults.
The property crime rate in Fargo stands at 44.61 per 1,000 residents, more than double the state average of 23.19 and surpassing the national average of 21.11. Property crimes include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. In 2020, Fargo documented 5,652 property crimes, consisting of 1,023 burglaries, 4,227 larceny-thefts, 402 motor vehicle thefts, and 25 arsons.
Notably, Fargo’s crime per square mile figure was over six times that of North Dakota’s average. The city’s crime index, which gauges a city’s safety relative to others in the U.S., scored a mere 7 out of 100, indicating that it was safer than only 7% of cities in the country.
Why is Fargo So Dangerous?
Several factors contribute to Fargo’s elevated crime rates, including:
- Rapid Population Growth: Fargo has experienced significant population growth due to a thriving economy and employment opportunities. However, this also leads to competition for limited resources, potentially fostering social tensions and conflicts.
- Drug Trafficking: Fargo serves as a major hub for drug trafficking, thanks to its location along Interstate 94 and proximity to the Minnesota border. Criminal organizations and gangs traffic drugs like methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana in and out of the city.
- Poverty and Inequality: Fargo’s poverty rate of 13.8% surpasses the state and national averages. Poverty can breed desperation and hopelessness, potentially increasing involvement in criminal activities. The city’s Gini index, measuring income inequality, reflects a wider wealth gap, which can fuel resentment and violence.
- Lack of Law Enforcement: Fargo maintains a police force of 178 officers, equating to 1.4 officers per 1,000 residents, which is lower than both the state and national averages. A reduced police presence can hinder crime deterrence, prevention, apprehension, and prosecution.
How to Stay Safe in Fargo
Despite its challenging crime statistics, Fargo offers a range of positive attributes that make it an appealing place to live and visit, including a vibrant arts and culture scene, a diverse and welcoming community, a low cost of living, and a high quality of life. Nevertheless, safety precautions are essential for residents and visitors alike:
- Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit and busy streets and sidewalks, and consider carrying a flashlight or whistle for emergencies.
- Secure your doors and windows at home and in your vehicle, and avoid leaving valuables or keys in plain sight.
- Promptly report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police, refraining from confronting potentially armed or dangerous individuals.
- Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and promptly remove yourself from situations or individuals that make you feel uncomfortable or threatened.
- Refrain from engaging in illegal or risky behaviors, such as drug use or gambling, which can expose you to harm and criminal elements.
- Seek assistance if you become a victim or witness of a crime. Reach out to the police, a counselor, a friend, or a family member for support and guidance.
In Conclusion
Fargo, as per the FBI crime data, is designated as the most perilous city to reside in North Dakota for 2023. The city contends with elevated rates of violent and property crimes that surpass both state and national averages. Several factors contribute to Fargo’s crime challenge, encompassing population growth, drug trafficking, poverty, income inequality, and insufficient law enforcement.
Nevertheless, residents and visitors can enjoy the city’s positive aspects while enhancing their safety through vigilance, responsibility, and precautionary measures to reduce their risk of encountering or becoming involved in criminal activities in Fargo.