Lumberton is the most dangerous city in North Carolina. It’s in Robeson County and has 19,025 residents. The crime rate is very high at 13,334 per 1,000 people. This means you have a 1 in 27 chance of being a crime victim, making Lumberton 435% more dangerous than the state average.
Property crimes are the most common, with a rate of 11,315 per 100,000 people, while violent crimes occur at a rate of 2,019 per 100,000 people in 2023. Much of the crime is linked to drug activity in the area.
Contributing Factors to Lumberton’s High Crime Rate
Experts attribute Lumberton’s crime epidemic to a combination of factors, including gang activity, drug abuse, unemployment, poverty, and racial tensions. The city’s median household income of $28,293 is less than half the state average of $57,341, making it one of the poorest municipalities in North Carolina. Additionally, Lumberton’s unemployment rate of 9.7% exceeds the state average of 4.6%.
The city’s diverse population, with Native Americans making up 38%, African Americans 36%, and White people 24%, has a history of segregation and racial prejudice, leading to distrust and animosity between communities. Lumberton’s location along Interstate 95, a major drug trafficking route, also contributes to the prevalence of opioid addiction and related crimes.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Address Crime in Lumberton, North Carolina
The city of Lumberton, North Carolina, which has been named the most dangerous small town in America, is taking several measures to combat its high crime rate.
Law Enforcement Efforts
– The Lumberton Police Department is investing in new equipment and technology to aid in crime prevention and investigation.
– The police force has been expanded, and more detectives have been hired to handle the high volume of cases.
– The police have partnered with federal and state agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and SBI to conduct joint operations and investigations.
Community Policing Programs
– Outreach events, crime prevention workshops, and neighborhood watch programs have been implemented to foster collaboration and trust between the police and residents
– The police department is working to improve lighting, security, and monitoring in high-crime areas.
Funding and Grants
– The city has secured grants and funding from organizations like the Governor’s Crime Commission, Department of Justice, and Department of Housing and Urban Development to support its crime reduction efforts.
– These funds are being used to enhance security measures, provide housing and social services for low-income families, and create job opportunities and educational initiatives for at-risk youth.
Community Partnerships
– Lumberton has partnered with various community organizations, including churches, schools, nonprofits, and businesses, to promote harmony and peace among diverse groups.
– The city has planned events and activities, such as sports, concerts, parades, and festivals, to celebrate its diversity and culture.
Victim and Offender Support Programs
– The city has funded projects and programs like drug treatment, counseling, mediation, and mentorship to assist both victims and perpetrators of violence.
While Lumberton still faces significant challenges, these measures demonstrate the city’s commitment to addressing its crime problem through a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, community engagement, and targeted interventions.
Conclusion
Lumberton’s designation as America’s most dangerous small town is a wake-up call for the community and the nation. While the city faces significant challenges, there is hope for a brighter future through continued law enforcement efforts, community engagement, and targeted interventions to address the root causes of crime. By working together, Lumberton can overcome its struggles and reclaim its rightful place as a safe and thriving community.