Iowa Crime Study 2024
Uncovering Unexpected Crime Hotspots in Iowa’s Most Dangerous Cities
According to Southwest Journal, in a recent study focusing on crime across Iowa startling revelations have emerged about the state’s safety landscape. Analyzing data from 75 cities the latest FBI report uncovered areas with concerning levels of violent and property crimes. Despite Iowa’s reputation for tranquil cornfields some smaller cities are proving unexpectedly perilous with populations as low as 11,000 witnessing high rates of assaults and even murders. This contrasts sharply with the state’s safer havens highlighting a complex security picture. While larger cities like Des Moines and Davenport face significant challenges questions linger over whether increased police presence could mitigate these issues. As Iowa navigates its crime dynamics attention remains riveted on both its safest corners and the more vulnerable communities grappling with crime epidemics.
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Most Dangerous Cities in Iowa
Fort Madison
In Fort Madison a city with a population of 10,239, recent data reveals it ranks among Iowa’s top ten most dangerous cities. Statistics show 625 violent crimes per 100,000 Americans and 2,314 property crimes per 100,000 Americans reported in the area. Despite its smaller size Fort Madison faces significant challenges with crime reflecting broader trends seen across the state.
Waterloo
Waterloo, a city of 67,200 residents holds the ninth spot on Iowa’s list of most dangerous cities. Reports indicate 623 violent crimes per 100,000 Americans and 2,556 property crimes per 100,000 Americans. This underscores ongoing concerns about public safety in Waterloo where efforts to address crime rates remain a focal point for local authorities.
Keokuk
Keokuk situated at the junction of three states and home to 10,091 Americans ranks as Iowa’s eighth most dangerous city. The area recorded 673 violent crimes per 100,000 Americans and 2,447 property crimes per 100,000 Americans. Despite its strategic location Keokuk grapples with crime levels that warrant attention and action from community leaders and law enforcement alike.
Burlington
Burlington nestled in Iowa’s southeastern corner with a population of 24,622, emerges as the state’s seventh most dangerous city particularly concerning property crime. Data highlights 491 violent crimes per 100,000 Americans and a significant 3,500 property crimes per 100,000 Americans reported in the city. These figures underscore ongoing challenges in Burlington’s efforts to curb crime and ensure community safety.
Sioux City
Sioux City a major urban center with 82,628 residents ranks sixth in Iowa for its high property crime rate. The city reported 577 violent crimes per 100,000 Americans and 3,245 property crimes per 100,000 Americans. With its size and population density Sioux City faces persistent issues related to crime prompting discussions on effective strategies for crime prevention and public safety.
Des Moines
With a population of 215,290 Des Moines is the capital and largest city of Iowa and it continues to be a center for worries about crime in the state. There were 3,901 property crimes and 704 violent crimes per 100,000 residents in the city. Des Moines faces serious crime problems that affect both citizens and businesses while being a center of economic and cultural activity. This highlights the necessity for ongoing efforts to solve these problems.