Though there is a lot of history, culture, and excellent education in Massachusetts, there is also some crime and violence. According to FBI data, the state’s violent crime rate in 2020 was 338 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the national average of 367.
However, in certain cities and areas of the state, serious crimes including rape, robbery, murder, and aggravated assault occur far more frequently. This article will reveal which Massachusetts municipality is the riskiest based on the most recent data.
Fall River is Massachusetts Most Dangerous City.
Fall River is the tenth most populated city in Massachusetts, home to roughly 90,000 people. This town was the most dangerous in the state in 2020, with 772 violent offenses for every 100,000 residents. In other words, one in every 130 residents in Fall River fell victim to a crime that year. In addition, there were two murders in the city—not numerous in comparison to neighboring towns, but nonetheless an issue.
Portugal and other European nations have long contributed to Fall River’s development as an industrial metropolis. It was once the largest textile manufacturing city in the United States. It produced eighty percent of the nation’s print cloth in the 1870s.
However, a lot of mills relocated or closed in the 20th century, which negatively impacted the city’s revenue. In the 1960s, the city also undertook extensive urban renewal programs that resulted in the demolition of numerous historic homes and sites. Fall River now deals with issues like drug misuse, gang violence, low income, and unemployment. These issues contribute to the high crime rate in the city.
Coming in Second Place Was Holyoke.
Another historic mill town that has struggled to change with the times is Holyoke. This town ranked second in Massachusetts for severe crime rates in 2020, with 739 per 100,000 residents. In addition, the city saw eight homicides, more than any other town or city in the state. Holyoke is home to around 40,000 people, therefore one in every 54 residents was a victim of a serious crime in that year.
Owing to its location on the Connecticut River’s Hadley Falls, Holyoke was formerly a major producer of alpaca wool, silk, and paper. It was also the first planned industrial city in the US. It was arranged in a grid, and a network of canals provided the energy for the mills. However, the latter half of the 20th century saw a decline in the city’s fortunes as a number of enterprises closed or relocated.
In addition, the city experienced pollution, urban deterioration, and racial conflicts. Holyoke is currently working on a number of projects to enhance its economy and culture, including the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center, and the Holyoke Innovation District.
What Should Be Done to Lower the Level of Violence in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, certain towns and cities have greater rates of serious crime than others. Holyoke and Fall River are two of these. The list of the top ten dangerous locations in Massachusetts also includes Springfield, Brockton, New Bedford, and Lawrence. These areas have high rates of crime and violence due to factors like deprivation, unequal socioeconomic conditions, and a lack of opportunities.
More funding for housing, employment, healthcare, and education is necessary to reduce violence in Massachusetts. Additionally, police must receive better training and be more engaged in the community. By addressing the causes of violence, the state may work to ensure that everyone has a safer and better future.