Minnesota is a state known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and high quality of life. However, it also has some towns and cities that suffer from high rates of crime and violence. According to the FBI data, the state had a violent crime rate of 238 per 100,000 people in 2020, which is lower than the national average of 367.
However, some places in the state have much higher rates of violent crime, which include homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. In this article, we will reveal which town in Minnesota takes the crown for most violent, based on the latest statistics.
The Most Violent Town in Minnesota: Bemidji
Bemidji is the most violent town in Minnesota, with a staggering violent crime rate of 1,057 per 100,000 people in 2020. That means that one in every 95 people in Bemidji was a victim of a violent crime that year. The town also had four homicides, which is relatively high for its population of about 15,000. Bemidji is located in the north-central part of the state, near the Mississippi River and Lake Bemidji. It is the regional center for education, health care, and commerce, and it is also home to the statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, which are popular tourist attractions. However, the town also faces challenges such as poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, and gang violence, which contribute to its high crime rate.
The Runner-Up: Waite Park
Waite Park is the second most violent town in Minnesota, with a violent crime rate of 1,014 per 100,000 people in 2020. The town also had one homicide, which is notable for its population of about 7,000. Waite Park is located in the central part of the state, near St. Cloud and the Mississippi River. It is a small town that offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities, such as parks, trails, golf courses, and museums. However, the town also has a high concentration of sex offenders, which accounts for its high rate of rape and sexual assault.
The Conclusion: What Can Be Done to Reduce Violence in Minnesota?
The towns and cities in Minnesota that have high rates of violence need to address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, inequality, addiction, and mental health issues. They also need to invest in effective law enforcement, prevention, and intervention programs, as well as community engagement and support. By doing so, they can improve the safety and well-being of their residents and visitors, and make Minnesota a more peaceful and prosperous state.
