Denver’s crime landscape is a complex one, with a total crime index of 1, indicating that it is safer than only 1% of U.S. neighborhoods. This index is a comprehensive measure of the overall crime rate, taking into account both violent and property crimes. However, it’s important to note that this figure doesn’t tell the whole story.
The crime rate can vary greatly from one neighborhood to another, and certain areas of the city may have significantly lower crime rates than others. Furthermore, the crime index is a relative measure, meaning that while Denver may have a higher crime rate than many other U.S. cities, it may still be safer than many cities globally.
The crime index is also influenced by the types of crimes committed. For instance, a city with a high number of property crimes but a low number of violent crimes may still have a high crime index. In Denver, both violent and property crimes contribute to the city’s crime index. Understanding the breakdown of these crimes can provide a more nuanced view of Denver’s crime landscape.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that the crime index is based on reported crimes. Many crimes go unreported, so the actual crime rate may be higher than the index suggests. Factors such as the effectiveness of local law enforcement, community engagement, and public trust in the police can all influence the reporting rate.
Violent Crimes
| Crime Type | Number of Crimes | Rate per 1,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Murder | 100 | 0.14 |
| Rape | 742 | 1.04 |
| Robbery | 1,327 | 1.87 |
| Assault | 4,731 | 6.65 |
Violent crimes in Denver, which include offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, stand at a rate of 9.70 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly higher than the national median of 4, indicating a serious issue that needs to be addressed. The chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Denver are 1 in 103, compared to 1 in 208 in Colorado. This disparity suggests that Denver’s violent crime rate is not just a reflection of national or statewide trends, but a localized issue.
The breakdown of violent crimes in Denver reveals that assault is the most common type of violent crime, with a rate of 6.65 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by robbery, rape, and murder. While the number of murders is relatively low compared to other violent crimes, any number of murders is a cause for concern. Furthermore, the impact of murder on a community can be profound, contributing to a sense of fear and insecurity.
It’s also important to consider the victims of these violent crimes. Certain groups may be more vulnerable to violent crime than others. For instance, women and girls are often disproportionately affected by certain types of violent crime, such as sexual assault. Similarly, marginalized communities may be more vulnerable to violent crime due to factors such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to resources.
Property Crimes
| Crime Type | Number of Crimes | Rate per 1,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Murder | 100 | 0.14 |
| Rape | 742 | 1.04 |
| Robbery | 1,327 | 1.87 |
| Assault | 4,731 | 6.65 |
| Burglary | 5,842 | 8.21 |
| Theft | 24,287 | 34.14 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 12,788 | 17.97 |
Property crimes in Denver, which encompass burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, have a rate of 60.32 per 1,000 residents. This is almost double the national median of 31.35, suggesting that property crime is a significant issue in the city.
The chances of becoming a victim of a property crime in Denver are 1 in 17, compared to 1 in 32 in Colorado. This indicates that property crime is a more prevalent issue in Denver compared to the rest of the state.
The breakdown of property crimes shows that theft is the most common type of property crime, with a rate of 34.14 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by motor vehicle theft and burglary. The high rate of theft could be influenced by a variety of factors, including economic conditions, the prevalence of drug addiction, and the effectiveness of local law enforcement.
5 Most Riskiest Parts Of Denver
| Neighborhood | Population | Crime Rate (% above Denver average) | Crimes Reported (Half-year period ending June 2020) | Safety Concerns | Odds of Becoming a Crime Victim |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Five Points | 16,264 | 173% | 276 thefts, 178 assaults | Risky bus transportation, walking alone at night | 1 in 9 |
| Capitol Hill | 21,726 | 284% | – | Generally safe for commuting, low reports of theft | – |
| City Park | 8,202 | – | – | Moderately safe for visitors, caution advised | 1 in 11 |
| Central West Denver | 50,475 | 138% | 25 thefts, 18 vandalism | Safe bus transportation, walking or cycling at night | 1 in 17 |
| Auraria | 799 | 3% above Denver, 76% above national | – | Unsafe at night, generally safe during the day | Not specified |
Five Points
With 16,264 inhabitants, this region’s crime rate stands at a shocking 173% above the Denver average, labeling it as dangerous from the 1960s to the 1990s. As reported by Spot crime, in the half-year period ending June 2020, the area witnessed 276 incidents of theft and 178 assaults.
The overall crime rate hovers around 12,000 per 100,000 inhabitants, leading to apprehension among the police in response. The major types of crimes prevalent here include petty and property crimes, raising concerns about the safety of bus transportation due to potential cash thefts. Walking alone after dark can be risky, particularly for women and tourists. In Five Points, the chance of falling victim to crime is 1 in 9.
Capitol Hill
This neighborhood in Denver, home to 21,726 people, is not particularly safe with an escalating crime rate, which is 284 percent higher than the national average and grows by 4% each year. Law enforcement officers are frequently spotted at intersections, and residents seem to prefer biking over walking.
Both modes of commuting are generally safe in this neighborhood, even for women walking alone at night. Petty thefts do occur, but they are rarely reported at bus stops, ensuring the safety of personal belongings. Capitol Hill is safer than only 2% of Colorado’s communities. Although a few hotels are recommended, they are located in somewhat remote areas.
City Park
Home to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, this diverse neighborhood consists of 8,202 people. The crime rate has shown a steady increase over the years. In 2016, 889 crimes were registered, which skyrocketed to 9,171 per 100,000 population by 2019.
The police presence is visible, but the area is only moderately safe for visitors or women traveling alone during the day, whether by bike or on foot. The odds of becoming a crime victim in this area are 1 in 11. Residents suggest keeping valuable items like wallets and phones secure to avoid potential thefts. Although the local motels are generally considered safe, few are reviewed frequently.
Central West Denver
Central West Denver, with a population of 50,475, is one of Denver’s biggest and, paradoxically, one of the best and worst neighborhoods. Its crime rate is 138 percent above the national average.
According to Spot crime, the most frequent crime recorded in the six months ending June 2020 was theft, accounting for 25 instances, followed by vandalism (18 instances). Bus transportation is deemed safe in this neighborhood, with no reports of pickpockets or muggers. Walking or cycling, even at night, is generally safe in this area. Women traveling alone may find the nearby hotels a good option, which receive many positive reviews. The odds of being a victim of a crime here are 1 in 17.
Auraria
With only 799 inhabitants, Auraria is one of Denver’s smallest neighborhoods. The crime rate here is slightly higher than the Denver average by 3% but is alarmingly 76% above the national average, making it one of the worst places to live in Colorado.
The neighborhood is primarily unsafe at night, although there are minimal violent incidents during the day. Money is generally safe from panhandlers and pickpockets, making public transportation a safe option. Police occasionally patrol the area on foot, and the hotels in this area are known for their safety measures.
Conclusion
While Denver’s crime rate is higher than the national average, it’s important to remember that crime rates can vary greatly from one neighborhood to another. It’s also worth noting that the city’s law enforcement agencies are continuously working to improve safety and reduce crime. As residents and potential visitors, staying informed about the crime landscape is crucial for making decisions about living, working, or visiting Denver.
