Little Rock, the capital and largest city of Arkansas faces significant challenges related to crime.
As per multiple sources, it registers one of the highest crime rates nationwide, particularly concerning violent offenses like homicide and aggravated assault.
In 2020 alone, the crime rate surged by 20%, primarily driven by an increase in homicides and aggravated assaults.
Furthermore, the city ranks prominently in property crimes such as burglary and theft.
Little Rock exhibits a notable crime rate of 6,707.0 incidents per 100,000 individuals, surpassing the national rate by 185.89% and the rate in Arkansas by 104.15%.
The city’s violent crime rate stands at 731 (according to City-Data.com crime index) or 939 per 100,000 (metro area), exceeding the national average by over double and surpassing approximately 98.9% of cities across the United States.
Additionally, Little Rock experiences a property crime rate of 5,768 incidents per 100,000 residents, reflecting a rate 173.83% higher than the national average and 103.77% higher than the Arkansas rate.
The crime map of Little Rock reveals the distribution of crime incidents, with high-risk areas represented in red and safer areas indicated in green.
This map employs a weighted system considering the type and severity of each crime.
Notably, the central and northwest regions of the city exhibit a higher concentration of criminal cases compared to the western part.
It is important to note that the crime rate per resident in certain areas may be influenced by factors such as the presence of retail establishments, airports, parks, and schools, which attract a larger number of individuals despite having a relatively lower population density.
The Little Rock Police Department (LRPD) utilizes Comparative Statistics (COMPSTAT), a method to analyze and compare crime levels from the previous year.
By employing this process, LRPD consistently tracks and updates weekly crime statistics on its official website.
As per the most recent report ending on June 12, 2023, the city of Little Rock witnessed notable crime figures: 1,038 dispatched calls, 21 homicides, 48 rapes, 172 robberies, 379 aggravated assaults, 1,018 burglaries, 2,016 thefts, and 279 auto thefts.
The alarming incidence of crime in Little Rock presents a significant peril to the safety and welfare of both inhabitants and tourists.
To mitigate and alleviate this issue, the city must implement efficacious strategies aimed at crime prevention and reduction.
These initiatives encompass augmenting police visibility and surveillance, bolstering community policing efforts and fostering engagement, enhancing social services and educational programs, addressing socio-economic disparities, and fostering a prevailing atmosphere of respect and nonviolence.
Also, read:
- Wisconsin; Crime In Milwaukee
- Ohio; Crime In Cleveland
- New Mexico; Crime In Albuquerque
- Missouri; Crime in Kansas
