Most Dangerous Cities In West Virginia: FBI Data

In West Virginia, residents are well aware of the charm that graces their picturesque state. Nonetheless, even amid such captivating landscapes, significant issues persist, evident in the list of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia. Despite the state’s natural allure, West Virginia confronts its unique set of challenges, akin to any other state.

Hence, for those considering living within the state or seeking to gauge safety rankings, a comprehensive compilation of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia based from FBI’s most recent available data offers valuable insights .

Beckley: One of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia. (Photo: Google)

First on the list of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia is Beckley. Beckley established its identity in the early 1900s as a prominent coal community. This historical facet is vividly presented at the nearby Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.

The coal industry’s growth resulted in a significant population increase. With 16,234 residents, Beckley encountered 147 instances of violent crime, including 109 aggravated assaults, 24 rapes, 11 robberies, and three cases of murder/non-negligent manslaughter. Property-related offenses reached a total of 836, with larceny/theft constituting the majority at 669 instances, making it as one of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia.

Charleston: One of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia.(Photo: Google)

Next on the list, Charleston serves as West Virginia’s central hub, operating as both the state capital and its largest city located in the southwestern region. Within the context of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia, Charleston ranks second for 2018.

This pattern is frequently noticeable in more populous urban regions, and Charleston, as one of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia due to crime rates, experienced 331 instances of violent crime. The majority of these incidents involved aggravated assaults, totaling 223 cases. The reported offenses encompassed 50 incidents of rape, 48 instances of robbery, and 10 cases of murder or non-negligent manslaughter.

Durban: One of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia. (Photo: Google)

Lastly, positioned along the Kanawha River, just on the outskirts of West Virginia’s state capital Charleston, Dunbar grapples with a significant surge in robberies, earning it the top spot for this crime on the list of the most dangerous cities in West Virginia. With a population of 7,262, witnessed a total of 44 violent crimes in 2018. These included 40 cases of aggravated assault, three instances of rape, and one incident of murder or non-negligent manslaughter. In terms of property crimes, there were 299 reported cases, primarily thefts.

This surge in criminal activity overshadows a captivating history. The land constituting present-day Dunbar was once owned by George Washington, granted to him as an acknowledgment of his military service. Despite this esteemed origin, the town itself didn’t materialize until the early 20th century when it transformed into a hub for a flourishing glass manufacturing industry. This economic prosperity reached its peak in the 1960s, followed by a gradual decline in the town’s population over the subsequent decades.

The provided data and list regarding the most dangerous cities in West Virginia aim to offer valuable insights into the crime rates of these cities. By shedding light on the prevalence of criminal activities, individuals can gain a better understanding of what to expect in terms of safety and security in these areas. This information can assist people in making informed decisions, whether they are considering relocating, traveling, or simply being aware of their surroundings.

Be Informed. Be Vigilant!

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