Natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance all abound throughout the state of New Mexico. It does, however, have a negative side as many of its communities experience high rates of violence and crime. New Mexico is the second most hazardous state in the United States, with a violent crime rate of 778 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 3,100 per 100,000 people, according to the FBI’s most recent crime report. These figures are significantly higher than the 368 and 2,110 national norms, respectively.
Though crime can occur anywhere, certain locations are more vulnerable to it than others. Here are four locations in New Mexico that have been identified as some of the most hazardous communities in the United States, based on statistics from many sources.
Gallup
Nestled along the famous Route 66, Gallup is a community of over 22,000 inhabitants in the northwest of the state, well-known for its rich Native American heritage. Because of its high crime rate, it also has a reputation as one of the worst areas in New Mexico to reside.
With 6,368 property crimes and 1,992 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, Gallup is among the most dangerous towns in the nation and the most dangerous town in the state. Gallup locals face a 1 in 58 risk of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 19 risk of falling victim to property crime.
Belen
Located south of Albuquerque in the state’s center is the little town of Belen, home to roughly 7,000 residents. It is home to several historical sites and cultural attractions and has a lengthy history that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. It does, however, also have a significant issue with crime, particularly violent crime.
With 2,029 violent crimes and 5,243 property crimes per 100,000 residents, Belen is among the most dangerous towns in the country and the second most dangerous town in the state. Belen locals have a 1 in 19 probability of becoming victims of property crime and a 1 in 49 chance of becoming victims of violent crime.
Deming
In the southwest of the state, close to the Mexican border, sits the town of Deming, home to around 14,000 people. Because it has many attractions and facilities, including parks, museums, golf courses, and hot springs, it is a well-liked stop for visitors and tourists. It does, however, also have a high crime rate, particularly property crime.
Deming is among the most hazardous towns in the US and the third most dangerous town in the state, with 5,153 property crimes and 963 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. Deming’s population has a 1 in 104 risk of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 20 risk of experiencing property crime.
Los Lunas
Located south of Albuquerque in the state’s center is the town of Los Lunas, home to over 16,000 residents. Schools, libraries, parks, and businesses are just a few of the options and services this expanding city has to offer its citizens. It does, however, also have a high crime rate, particularly violent crime.
With 4,074 property crimes and 1,286 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, Los Lunas is among the most hazardous towns in the nation and the fourth most dangerous in the state. Los Lunar residents are at a 1 in 78 risk of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 25 risk of experiencing property crime.
Conclusion
Positive aspects of New Mexico include its historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. It does, however, have certain drawbacks, including its dangerous towns and high crime rates. While there are safe areas and unsafe areas across New Mexico, both visitors and locals should be aware of the potential risks and take protective measures to keep themselves and their belongings safe. They can take advantage of the finest and avoid the worst that New Mexico has to offer by doing this.