As residents of New Mexico you are probably aware of New Mexico’s high violent crime rate. The following is definitely not aimed towards fueling fear, but rather, increasing vigilance.
To begin with, violent crime technically refers to murder, manslaughter, rape, robbery and aggravated assault – the crimes that are the most devastating to victims and their families.
New Mexico’s violent crime rate has unfortunately been on the rise for a while; it rose 6.6% between 2012 and 2013, the greatest in the nation, which equated to nearly 597 per 100,000 residents.
In 2015 New Mexico ranked third in the nation in highest violent crime rates. The data showed that there were 656.1 violent crimes per 100,000 New Mexico residents compared to the national average which was 372.6 violent crimes per 100,000 people. Overall, the violent crime rate rose 3.1% in 2015 nationally, whereas in New Mexico it rose 9.8%.
In recent years, however, murder rates in New Mexico have decreased, going down to 4.8 per 100,000 people; still slightly above the U.S. average of 4.5 murders per 100,000 people. The rate of murders and non-negligent manslaughters increased nationally by 11.4%, while in New Mexico the rate rose by 16.7%.
Important to note, that certain areas in New Mexico cause greater concern. Using 2016 data from Home Security Shield of cities with populations above 5000, here are ten places to be particularly cautious in:
- Roswell – The violent crime rate is above the national average; the likelihood that you will be a crime victim is 1 in 17.
- Hobbs – 1 in 19 people are victims of crime.
- Silver City – 1 in 14 people are crime victims.
- Albuquerque – Considering it has the highest population in New Mexico, there will naturally be a higher crime rate; the chances you will be a victim are 1 in 16.
- Farmington – The likelihood that you will be a crime victim is 1 in 19.
- Socorro – The violent crime rate is more than 30% above the state average. The probability of being a victim is 1 in 18.
- Taos – 1 in 11 people are crime victims.
- Gallup – Some statistics put this city ahead of Detroit in terms of crime; the likelihood is 1 in 9.
- Artesia – Violent crime is on the rise. There is a 1 in 16 chance of being a victim of crime.
- Española – Crime is on the rise in this town with 1 in 9 people being victims of crime.
To consult with an attorney today on any criminal or family court matter, call the most experienced legal practitioners in New Mexico, the Lightning Legal Group. We are here to help you navigate these serious issues. Schedule a free consultation now by calling 505-247-2390.
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