Belton, SC Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Belton, SC

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 Belton crime rate is higher than the national average by 150.7%. Specifically, there were 10 violent crimes in Belton, equivalent to 224 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 39.4%. Furthermore, Belton recorded 250 property crimes, amounting to 5602 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 186.6%.

Having a crime rate of 5826 per 100,000 residents, Belton experiences a crime rate that is 150.65% higher when compared to the national average, leading to one of the highest overall crime rates in the nation. It's important to clarify that this doesn't imply the entire city is unsafe. Like any area, Belton contains neighborhoods with varying safety levels and you can find areas that are notably safer than others, emphasizing the need for targeted crime prevention efforts and community engagement initiatives.

In the latest reported crime year, Belton 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.

Every year, one in 18 people fall victim to a property crime in Belton - which is high compared to the national average. With a property crime rate of 5602 per 100,000 people, Belton has one of the highest property crime rates in the country. In fact, the city ranks among the worst 10% of all cities that reported crime last year.

Is Belton a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Belton a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Belton crime rate is 151% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.71 crimes per day - 0.03 violent crimes and 0.68 property crimes.

Has Crime in Belton Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Belton. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Belton has increased by 58.5%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 9.1%, while property crime has increased by 63.4%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Belton.

Potential Causes for Crime in Belton

Belton has a poverty rate of 16.5, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.

In areas where employment options are limited or where a significant proportion of jobs offer meager wages, the likelihood of heightened unemployment and homelessness increases. Regions facing challenges related to unemployment or inadequate income may become more vulnerable to a surge in crime stemming from economic instability. While low unemployment rates tend to lead to reduced crime in most areas. Belton currently has an unemployment rate of 2.6%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.

Belton has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 3.33 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to 3.25 nationwide. Crime rates are profoundly influenced by the effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing endeavors. A resilient and cooperative partnership between law enforcement agencies and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, ultimately enhancing safety. The efficacy of law enforcement extends beyond mere numbers and extends into the realm of community policing strategies, emphasizing the cultivation of trust and collaboration between officers and the community. It is not merely a matter of quantity but the quality of engagement with the community that matters most.

Belton crime map