A crime is a great determinant of a functional society. It affects people’s perception of safety, economic development and quality of life. For people staying or living in Mississippi, here’s a recent FBI statistics on the state’s violent and property crimes.
Crime stats
According to Pew Research, America experiences an average of 16.5 violent crimes for every 1,000 residents aged 12 years or older. Mississippi’s crime rate is 27% lower than the national average. Among the many crimes, homicide seems most prevalent, especially in the City of Jackson.
Reasons why homicide is notably higher
The spike in homicide, particularly in 2020 in Mississippi, can result from the pandemic stress, proliferation of guns and diminished trust in law enforcement. Drug users and dealers are more likely to resort to violence as they come in contact with rival gangs and police officers.
Poverty and lack of mental health services are also contributing factors. In Mississippi, an estimated 20 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, leaving many desperate and helpless in difficult situations. Additionally, people who lack access to mental healthcare may be at a greater risk for violent behavior.
How to be safe
Mississippi criminal law strongly discourages any act of violence. It is important to be aware of and obey the laws defined by the state if one wishes to stay safe in Mississippi. You should also consider staying away from areas known to be dangerous and practice personal safety measures such as avoiding late-night outings, not walking alone at night, and not leaving valuables unattended while in public spaces.
If someone faces any form of violence, they should immediately contact the police or other law enforcement agencies for help. There are also various organizations available in Mississippi that support victims of crime and violence, such as Jackson Emergency Victim Services (JEVS) and the Mississippi Network for Victim Assistance (MNVA).
Overall, Mississippi’s crime rate is lower than the national average. However, it is still important for citizens to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
