Little Rock, Arkansas is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Arkansas. It is the county seat of Pulaski County and home to a population of over 197,000 people. Little Rock is known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and stunning outdoor activities. But is there a lot of crime in Little Rock?
Crime Rates in Little Rock
The crime rate in Little Rock is higher than the national average, with an estimated 8,213 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2019. This puts Little Rock above the national average of 3,930 violent crimes per 100,000 people. The most common type of crime in Little Rock is property crime, accounting for nearly 70% of all reported crimes.
Causes of Crime in Little Rock
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the crime rate in a city, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of access to education and resources. Little Rock has a poverty rate of 22.6%, higher than the national average of 13.1%. Additionally, the unemployment rate in Little Rock is 4.6%, higher than the national average of 3.7%.
Crime Prevention Efforts in Little Rock
In an effort to reduce crime, the City of Little Rock has implemented a number of programs and initiatives. These include:
- Community policing – The city has implemented a community policing program that focuses on building relationships between police and the community.
- Neighborhood Watch – The city has launched a Neighborhood Watch program that encourages residents to report suspicious activity.
- Youth programs – The city has created youth programs to provide young people with educational and recreational opportunities.
- Job training – The city has created job training programs to help individuals gain skills and find employment.
Conclusion
Little Rock has a higher crime rate than the national average, but the city is making efforts to reduce crime through community policing, Neighborhood Watch programs, youth programs, and job training initiatives. While crime is still a concern in Little Rock, the city is working to create a safer and more secure environment for its residents.