A recent study has identified the four most unsafe cities in Mississippi based on crime rates. The report, published by SafeWise, analyzed FBI crime data to determine the safest and most dangerous cities in the state.
1. Jackson, Mississippi
Jackson, the capital city of Mississippi, has a population of 153,701. Named after President Andrew Jackson, it boasts many historical sites. It played a crucial role in the civil rights movement and is where civil rights activist Medgar Evers was tragically murdered.
Famous people from Jackson include Morgan Freeman and Channing Tatum. Despite being the state’s hub for medicine, finance, and law, Jackson has a high poverty rate of 24%.
In 2020, Jackson had the second-highest homicide rate in the U.S., with 79.69 murders per 100,000 residents, just behind St. Louis. It is one of the most dangerous cities in the country, alongside St. Louis and Detroit.
Last year, there were 1,288 violent crimes in Jackson, including 130 murders, and 6,425 property crimes. This means the overall chance of becoming a crime victim in Jackson is 1 in 20.
2. Pascagoula, Mississippi
Pascagoula, with a population of 21,610, is located near the Gulf of Mexico. This location makes it one of the busiest ports in Mississippi. The city is home to Huntington-Ingalls shipbuilders, the state’s largest employer, as well as Chevron Oil’s largest refinery and the Rolls Royce automotive headquarters.
The crime rate in Pascagoula is 50 per 1,000 people, making it safer than only 2% of other cities its size. Last year, there were 1,241 property crimes, meaning the chance of being a victim of a property crime is 1 in 21. Additionally, there were 56 violent crimes in the city, including 4 murders, 22 sexual assaults, and 19 robberies.
3. Cleveland, Mississippi
Named after President Grover Cleveland, this city has a population of 11,199. Cleveland is located in the heart of the Delta, along the Mississippi River. Blues legend B.B. King said blues music was born here. Cleveland is also home to the GRAMMY Museum. Visitors can enjoy a mix of boutiques, eateries, and antique shops.
However, be cautious as it is safer than only 2% of similar cities. Last year, there were 99 violent crimes (9 per 1,000 people) and 501 property crimes (45 per 1,000 people). The chances of being a victim of violent crime in Cleveland are 1 in 110, and for property crime, it’s 1 in 22.
4. Meridian, Mississippi
Meridian is the 7th largest city in Mississippi, with a population of 36,873. Located in the east-central hills of the state, it’s known for its unique downtown architecture, museums, and cultural events. It is also the birthplace of Jimmie Rodgers, the “father of country music.”
Last year, Meridian had 181 violent crimes, including 14 murders, 16 sexual assaults, 73 robberies, and 79 aggravated assaults. There were also 1,475 property crimes. Meridian is safer than 8% of cities of similar size. The chance of becoming a victim of property crime is 1 in 34.
Conclusion
The findings of this report highlight the need for improved public safety measures and community development initiatives in these cities. Addressing the underlying issues that contribute to high crime rates and unsafe living conditions should be a priority for local authorities and community leaders. Additionally, the ongoing water crisis in Jackson requires immediate attention and investment to ensure that all residents have access to clean and safe drinking water.
