Ohio offers numerous attractions, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the Cedar Point amusement park. However, not every city in Ohio provides a safe and pleasant living environment. According to recent FBI statistics, Canton stands out as the most dangerous city in Ohio.
Canton’s Distinction in Crime:
Canton, the eighth-largest city in Ohio with a population of around 72,000, is renowned for hosting the Professional Football Hall of Fame, attracting visitors annually. Despite its appeal, Canton grapples with a high crime rate, surpassing that of 99% of other American cities.
In 2020, the FBI reported 1,429 violent crimes and 3,411 property crimes in Canton. These offenses encompassed murder, rape, robbery, assault, burglary, theft, and auto theft. With crime rates per 1,000 residents at 20.8 for violent crimes and 47.3 for property crimes, Canton exceeds national averages significantly (3.7 and 21.1, respectively).
Canton’s crime rates also surpass state averages, ranking as the second-most violent and fourth-most property crime city in Ohio, trailing behind Cleveland, Springfield, and Portsmouth.
Root Causes and Outcomes of Canton’s Crime Issue:
Various factors contribute to Canton’s crime problem, including poverty, unemployment, education, drugs, and gang activity. Census data reveals that 31.7% of Canton residents live below the poverty line, double the national average. Unemployment stands at 7.9%, surpassing the national rate of 6.1%, and the high school graduation rate is 80.5%, below the national average of 87.7%.
The combination of poverty, unemployment, and low education often leads to despair, frustration, and desperation, contributing to criminal activities. Canton grapples with a significant drug problem, particularly with opioids, meth, and cocaine, amplifying violence and illegal activities. Gangs like the Bloods, Crips, and Latin Kings further compound the city’s challenges with turf wars and drug trafficking.
Consequences of High Crime Rates:
Canton’s elevated crime rates have adverse effects on the city and its residents. Crime discourages investment, tourism, and potential residency, impacting the local economy and tax revenue. The quality of life, health, and safety of residents suffer, fostering fear and anxiety. Additionally, crime tarnishes the city’s reputation, affecting civic pride and identity.
Improving Canton’s Safety:
While there’s no instant remedy for Canton’s crime issue, several steps can enhance the city’s safety:
- Increased Police Presence: Bolster police presence and resources in high-crime areas to deter, prevent, and respond to criminal activities.
- Community-Police Collaboration: Improve cooperation and communication between the police and the community to build trust, respect, and partnerships, fostering crime reporting and resolution.
- Social Services and Programs: Provide more social services and programs, especially for low-income, unemployed, and undereducated residents, addressing joblessness, education, housing, healthcare, and counseling.
- Drug Prevention and Treatment: Expand drug prevention and treatment options to help addicts overcome addiction, reducing the demand and supply of drugs.
- Support for Youth and Families: Support the city’s youth and families with positive role models, mentors, activities, and opportunities, deterring gang involvement and criminal activities.
In Conclusion:
While Canton grapples with a high crime rate, collaborative efforts from authorities, the community, and stakeholders can transform it into a safer and more livable city.