Leominster, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Leominster, MA

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Leominster crime rate is lower than the national average by 20.2%. Specifically, there were 187 violent crimes in Leominster, equivalent to 428 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 15.7%. Furthermore, Leominster recorded 623 property crimes, amounting to 1426 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 27%.

In the latest reported crime year, Leominster recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Leominster?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Leominster residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 16 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 56% of Leominster residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 44% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Leominster a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Leominster is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Leominster has a total crime rate that is 20% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 2.22 daily crimes (0.51 violent daily crimes and 1.71 daily property crimes) in Leominster.

Has Crime in Leominster Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Leominster. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Leominster has decreased by 4.1%. Violent crimes have increased by 10.7%, while property crimes have decreased by 7.8%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Leominster

Leominster has a poverty rate that stands at 11, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Leominster crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.

In Leominster, the current unemployment rate stands at 3.7%, diverging from the national average of 4.7%. The availability of job opportunities is a pivotal factor influencing unemployment and underemployment rates. Communities where individuals contend with limited employment prospects or a preponderance of low-wage positions may witness elevated rates of joblessness and income inadequacy, which can contribute to heightened crime levels driven by financial insecurity. Conversely, areas characterized by robust employment rates often experience a reduction in overall Leominster crime rates.

Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Leominster, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 1.65 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.

Leominster crime map