Pennsylvania boasts a state with a rich historical background, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Nevertheless, not all of its cities offer safety and tranquility.
According to the latest FBI statistics, certain cities in Pennsylvania struggle with high rates of both violent and property crimes, rendering them among the nation’s most perilous. One of these cities is McKees Rocks, a small town situated in Allegheny County, near Pittsburgh.
What Makes McKees Rocks So Dangerous?
Despite its modest population of 6,046, McKees Rocks has a concerning crime rate of 40.57 incidents per 1,000 people, marking a 73% excess over the national average. Consequently, residents and visitors face a 1 in 25 chance of falling victim to criminal activities. McKees Rocks scores a low 2 on the crime index, signifying that it ranks safer than just 2% of other U.S. cities.
The prevalent crime category in McKees Rocks is property crime, encompassing incidents like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. In 2020 alone, 4,723 property crimes were reported, leaving residents with a 1 in 22 probability of encountering such crimes.
Additionally, the city is notorious for its violent crimes, which encompass assault, rape, robbery, and murder. In the same year, 1,687 violent crimes were reported, translating to a 1 in 58 likelihood of experiencing violent crime, a particularly concerning statistic given the city’s small population.
One significant factor contributing to McKees Rocks’ elevated crime rate is poverty. The median household income in the city stands at $28,750, a figure 47% lower than the national average. The poverty rate in the city is also alarmingly high at 28.9%, an 88% excess over the national average. Poverty often leads to various social problems, including unemployment, substance abuse, and mental health issues, which can serve as catalysts for criminal behavior.
Inadequate law enforcement further compounds the city’s safety challenges. With just 16 officers, the local police department struggles to adequately patrol and protect the area. Budget constraints, equipment shortages, and low morale further hamper the department’s efficiency, leading to many crimes going unsolved and unpunished. This situation fosters a sense of impunity and insecurity among residents.
How Can McKees Rocks Improve Safety?
McKees Rocks urgently requires intervention and support to curb its crime rate and enhance its residents’ quality of life. Some potential solutions include:
- Increased Funding and Resources for the Police Department: This would allow for the hiring of more officers, equipment upgrades, and improved training and professionalism.
- Community Policing Programs: Building trust and cooperation between the police and residents, encouraging collaboration in crime prevention and resolution.
- Enhanced Social Services and Support: Providing education, healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities for low-income and vulnerable groups to help them break free from poverty and realize their potential.
- Youth Engagement: Promoting positive activities such as sports, arts, and mentoring to steer young individuals away from drugs, gangs, and violence, inspiring them to pursue their dreams.
In Conclusion
McKees Rocks is a city with untapped potential and allure, yet it grapples with crime and poverty, making it one of Pennsylvania’s and the nation’s most dangerous cities. However, it is not a lost cause. Through appropriate policies, programs, and partnerships, McKees Rocks can transform into a safer and more prosperous place for its residents, workers, and visitors alike.