Missouri offers a mix of attractions, including the iconic Gateway Arch, the scenic Ozark Mountains, and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home. However, alongside its charm, the state grapples with safety concerns, particularly in its urban regions.
According to the most recent FBI crime data, Missouri ranks as the seventh most perilous state in the United States, characterized by a violent crime rate of 1,568 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 6,473 per 100,000 people. Yet, which city within Missouri claims the title of the most dangerous? The answer might surprise you.
Springfield: The Queen City of Crime
As the third-largest city in Missouri, Springfield boasts a population of 168,856, known for its robust job market, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse economy. Unfortunately, it also bears the notoriety of being the most dangerous city in Missouri and one of the nation’s least secure. In 2021, Springfield landed the fifth spot on Safewise’s list of the most dangerous cities in the United States.
While Springfield didn’t top the list for either violent or property crime per capita among Missouri cities, it ranked high enough in both categories to secure its unenviable position. In 2020, Springfield had the fifth-highest violent crime rate (15.08 per 1,000 people) and the fourth-highest property crime rate (129.48 per 1,000 people) in Missouri. This means that residents faced a one in eight chance of falling victim to a crime.
Furthermore, Springfield reported the tenth-highest rate of rape cases (0.86 per 1,000 people) and the seventh-highest burglary rate (24.75 per 1,000 people) in Missouri for the same year. These crimes are particularly traumatic and invasive for victims and their families. Additionally, Springfield had the third-highest number of murders (22) among major cities in Missouri, trailing only St. Louis and Kansas City.
Why is Springfield So Dangerous?
Several factors contribute to Springfield’s high crime rates, including poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, gang activity, and limited police resources. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Springfield had a poverty rate of 22.9% and a median household income of $36,856 in 2019, figures significantly below state and national averages, indicating that many residents struggle to meet their basic needs.
Drug abuse, particularly the prevalence of methamphetamine, exacerbates crime in Springfield. The city has earned the unenviable moniker of the “meth capital” of Missouri, witnessing a surge in meth-related arrests and overdoses. Meth is a highly addictive and destructive substance, linked to paranoia, aggression, violence, and mental health issues among users and dealers.
Gang activity and gun violence are also pressing concerns in Springfield. The Springfield Police Department reports approximately 30 active gangs in the city, with around 600 members involved in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, robbery, assault, and murder. These gangs often resort to firearms to settle disputes and intimidate rivals and witnesses. In 2020, Springfield recorded 1,230 reported incidents of aggravated assault with a firearm.
Moreover, Springfield grapples with a shortage of police resources and waning community trust. The understaffed and underfunded Springfield Police Department faces challenges in responding to service calls promptly and preventing crimes. Allegations of misconduct and excessive force against citizens have further eroded public confidence and cooperation with the police, vital elements for effective crime prevention and reduction.
How to Stay Safe in Springfield
While Springfield grapples with elevated crime rates, it is not beyond hope. Several initiatives are underway to enhance safety and the overall quality of life for residents and visitors. These include:
- Increasing police presence and patrols in high-crime areas.
- Implementing community policing programs and initiatives to build trust and partnerships between the police and the public.
- Providing more resources and support for victims of crime and violence.
- Expanding drug treatment and prevention programs to reduce substance abuse and addiction.
- Enhancing education and employment opportunities to reduce poverty and inequality.
- Promoting neighborhood watch groups and crime prevention tips to empower citizens to protect themselves and their property.
For those living in or visiting Springfield, taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of becoming a crime victim is advisable. These steps encompass avoiding walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas, securing your doors and windows at home and in your car, considering security systems or cameras for your property, promptly reporting any suspicious or criminal activity to the police, remaining vigilant of your surroundings, and carrying self-defense items such as pepper spray or a whistle.
Conclusion
Springfield’s charm is juxtaposed with a significant crime issue, as it stands out as the most dangerous city in Missouri and one of the nation’s riskiest cities, according to recent FBI crime data. High rates of violent and property crime, including rape, burglary, and murder, persist. Springfield’s crime problem is driven by factors like poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, gang activity, and limited police resources.
Nevertheless, ongoing efforts aim to make Springfield safer and more livable. Collaborative actions, such as increasing police presence, building community trust, supporting victims, tackling drug addiction, and addressing socio-economic disparities, are central to this endeavor.
For residents and visitors alike, taking preventive measures can help ensure personal safety in Springfield. By uniting these efforts, Springfield can aspire to become a safer and more welcoming city for all.