Ohio offers numerous attractions, including renowned landmarks like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the scenic Ohio River. Nevertheless, not all cities within Ohio provide a safe and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors. According to the latest FBI statistics, one city in Ohio stands out as the most dangerous in the entire nation: Chillicothe.
What Makes Chillicothe So Dangerous?
Chillicothe, a relatively small city with a population of 21,748, was once Ohio’s capital but is now infamous for its elevated crime rate. In 2020, a staggering 7,743 crimes were reported in Chillicothe, resulting in a crime rate of 32.56 incidents per 1,000 people. This rate is a striking 248% higher than Ohio’s average crime rate.
Property crimes, such as burglary, theft, and vandalism, make up the majority of the offenses in Chillicothe. In 2020, there were 7,268 property crimes reported, indicating that 1 in 29 Chillicothe residents experienced a property crime. This rate is 3.5 times higher than the rest of Ohio.
However, Chillicothe faces not only property crime challenges but also a concerning prevalence of violent crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, and assault. In 2020, 475 violent crimes were reported, meaning that 1 in 209 Chillicothe residents experienced a violent crime. This rate is 2.2 times higher than the Ohio average.
What Are the Causes of Crime in Chillicothe?
Several factors contribute to the high crime rate in Chillicothe. Some of the most common ones include:
Poverty: Chillicothe’s poverty rate stands at 28.4%, surpassing the national average of 13.4%. Poverty can breed desperation, frustration, and hopelessness, factors that can fuel criminal behavior.
Drugs: Chillicothe has been severely impacted by the opioid epidemic, leading to numerous fatalities and broken families. Drug addiction can heighten the risk of both committing and falling victim to crimes while also contributing to the spread of diseases and violence.
Education: Chillicothe exhibits a lower level of educational attainment, with only 14.8% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Education can equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to avoid criminal activities.
Unemployment: With an unemployment rate of 6.1%, Chillicothe surpasses the national average of 5.4%. High unemployment can diminish income, self-esteem, and social support, increasing the likelihood of criminal involvement.
What Can Be Done to Improve the Safety of Chillicothe?
Addressing the crime issue in Chillicothe is a complex challenge with no quick or easy solutions. However, some potential steps that can be considered include:
Investing in social services: Providing additional resources and support for those in need, including the impoverished, homeless, addicted, mentally ill, and abuse victims, can help them overcome their challenges and enhance their quality of life.
Strengthening law enforcement: Increasing the number of well-trained police officers and fostering community cooperation can serve as a deterrent to crime, prevent offenses, and solve cases while also building trust and respect between law enforcement and the public.
Promoting education and employment: Creating opportunities and incentives for pursuing higher education and securing stable, fulfilling employment can help individuals achieve their goals, reduce their exposure to criminal temptations, and contribute to crime reduction.
Encouraging civic engagement: Cultivating a sense of belonging and responsibility among Chillicothe residents, involving them in decision-making and problem-solving processes, can empower them and increase their commitment to the city’s well-being.
Conclusion
Chillicothe, a city with a rich history and untapped potential for a brighter future, faces a serious crime problem that threatens its safety and prosperity. Addressing the root causes of crime and implementing effective strategies to combat it can transform Chillicothe into a safer and more livable city for all of its residents.