Bakersfield Ranks as 10th Most Dangerous City in California
Understanding the Rising Crime Rates in California’s Central Valley – Bakersfield’s Violent and Property Crime Trends
Bakersfield has emerged on a troubling list ranking as the 10th most dangerous city in California. The real estate company assessed crime rates, including theft, burglary, and murder to compile its rankings. With a population of about 405,000, Bakersfield’s violent crime rate stood at 498 incidents per 100,000 residents, 27% higher than the national average. The city experienced a significant number of property crimes with over 15,500 reported incidents last year.
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(photo: FOX 11 Los Angeles)
Bakersfield Sees Significant Drop in Homicides, but Crime Rate Remains Elevated
Despite these alarming figures, Bakersfield saw a notable decrease in homicides down 37% from the previous year. The city’s overall crime rate remains 94% above the national average largely attributed to gang activity. This decline in homicides has been seen as a positive development but it has not fully alleviated concerns about the city’s safety.
Unpacking the Complexities of Crime Reporting: Understanding the Nuances Behind Urban Safety Rankings
The data for Bakers Field Now report was sourced from the FBI Uniform Crime Report and local government statistics. While larger cities like Los Angeles report higher total crime numbers and smaller cities like Bakersfield can have higher crime rates relative to their populations leading to their prominence on such lists. This statistical nuance underscores the complex nature of crime reporting and urban safety.
