According to a Southwest Journal report, Indiana’s most dangerous places are undergoing a shift. While Gary was once the hotspot, recent insights from RoadSnacks show a spread of challenges across the state. Data-driven analysis, looking at 59 cities and consulting the latest FBI crime report, reveals that Indiana’s overall crime rates are higher than the national average. However, specific areas need attention. Big cities like Indianapolis and Evansville grapple with concentrated crime due to factors like high unemployment and low wages.
READ ALSO: 10 Safest Cities in the World in 2023: Living Without Worries
10 Most Dangerous Cities in Indiana. (PHOTO: istock)
Terre Haute
With a population of around 60,604, this Wabash River town is seriously concerned about public safety. Because of its high incidence of violent crime (1,381 per 100,000) and highest rate of property crime (4,762 per 100,000), it is known as the most hazardous city in Indiana. In spite of being home to the Swope Art Museum and Indiana State University, the community frequently has burglaries, car thefts, and arson.
South Bend
Home to both Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Notre Dame, South Bend has 102,119 inhabitants, making it the second-riskiest city in Indiana. With the highest violent crime rate in the state (1,728 per 100,000), it is difficult to keep the people living there secure due to issues like vehicle theft and burglaries.
Evansville
Known as “Pocket City” and home to 117,747 inhabitants, Evansville is the third-largest city in Indiana and has serious theft issues. There are 3,611 property crimes and 1,006 violent crimes per 100,000 people in the city. It is urgently necessary to address the grave concern raised by the increasing number of rape cases.
With 890,672 citizens, the state capital suffers from a high murder and robbery rate. It is in sixth place for property crimes (3,569 per 100,000) and fifth place for violent crimes (870 per 100,000). Unsolved homicide cases, such as Ann Ott’s 1971 murder, underscore its continuous struggle with violent crime.
Warsaw
With 15,319 residents, despite its tiny size, Warsaw ranks as Indiana’s sixth-most dangerous city. Its problems include property crimes (3,263 per 100,000) and violent crimes (874 per 100,000). To guarantee citizen safety and reduce these numbers, city officials are hard at work developing strategies.
Lafayette
With 72,040 inhabitants, Lafayette, home of Purdue University, is now the sixth-most dangerous city. It now ranks ninth for violent crimes per 100,000 people and third for burglaries, reflecting a concerning increase in both property and violent crimes. Coordinated attempts to address the underlying causes of these events are being demanded by local politicians and residents.
Cumberland
A serene suburb outside of the Indianapolis region, Cumberland ranks sixth in terms of crime risk in Indiana and has one of the highest rates of property crimes, including larcenies. A homicide inquiry has been launched in response to the startling 2023 murder of a 19-year-old, underscoring the necessity of more stringent security protocols.
New Albany
Despite its historical significance, New Albany is considered the ninth-most hazardous suburb in Indiana, according to current crime rates. The city struggles with high rates of property crime, especially car thefts and larcenies, despite being close to famous cultural sites. The city’s complex relationship with justice and crime is brought home by the history of the area, which includes the unresolved poisoning case of Captain John Box.
Bloomington
86,347 residents and being home to Indiana University, Bloomington has a higher than average crime rate compared to other college towns. In terms of violent crimes, it comes in at number ten (555 per 100,000) and property crimes at number fourteen (2,407 per 100,000). Authorities and the community are collaborating to create strategies that guarantee the safety of both locals and students.
Boonville
Despite its ostensibly helpful moniker, Boonville ranks tenth among Indiana’s riskiest locations. The city, which has 6,200 residents, has the sixth-best rate of violent crime (774 per 100,000). Even though it is a minor issue, reducing crime is crucial to raising public safety and addressing deeper problems.
READ ALSO: 20 Most Dangerous Cities in the US 2023: A Comprehensive Analysis
Bound to Haunt Decades Later: Indiana’s Cold Case
In 1978, four teenage workers at Burger King were brutally killed in a murderous case that horrified Indiana. One of the most notorious cold cases in the state is still unresolved.
Travel Advice for a Secure Trip to Indiana
Use these brief travel guidelines to put safety first while you tour Indiana:
City Caution: Steer clear of decaying metropolitan areas and use caution, particularly in places such as Indianapolis.
Choose your location wisely by doing research on it online to learn about current conditions and any hazards.
Weather Update: Verify the expected weather along your path and at your destination.
Blend in: To reduce the possibility of theft or fraud, try not to seem like a tourist.
Defensive Driving: Drive sensibly by observing speed limits and traffic signs.
Travel Insurance: If your trip is disrupted, you may be able to get reimbursement by purchasing travel insurance.
Travel safely across Indiana, being aware of your surroundings and vigilant at all times.
