Ohio has a rich history, culture, and economy. However, it also contains some of the most dangerous cities in the country, with violent crime rates much exceeding the national and state norms. This article will let you know which Ohio town is the most violent, and why you should avoid it at all costs.
Most violent town in Ohio
According to the most recent FBI data, the most dangerous municipality in Ohio is Chillicothe, a small city of approximately 21,000 people in Ross County. Chillicothe’s violent crime rate is 1,512 per 100,000 population, the most in the state and one of the worst in the country.
Your chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Chillicothe are about four times higher than the state average and more than five times higher than the national average.
The most common types of violent crimes in Chillicothe are aggravated assaults, robberies, and rapes. In 2024, there were 317 reports of violent assault, 45 of robbery, and 18 of rape in Chillicothe. The city also saw one homicide, which is unusual for such a small population.
Chillicothe has a cheaper cost of living than most other areas in Ohio, yet it also has unusually high poverty and unemployment rates. Chillicothe’s typical household income is $38,264, approximately 30% less than the state average. The poverty rate of Chillicothe is 26.7%, more than twice the state average. Chillicothe’s unemployment rate is 6.8%, higher than both the state and national rates.
Causes and Effects of Violence in Chillicothe
Many causes contribute to Chillicothe’s high rate of violence, including social, economic, and environmental challenges. Some of the possible causes include:
Lack of education and opportunities: Chillicothe’s educational attainment is poor, with only 16.4% of people holding a bachelor’s or higher degree. This limits many inhabitants’ employment and income opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and crime.
Drug and alcohol misuse are prevalent in Chillicothe, particularly among young people. According to a Ross County Sheriff’s Office report from 2024, Chillicothe had 1,034 drug arrests, 276 DUI arrests, and 123 alcohol-related crashes. Drug and alcohol misuse can impair judgment, increase hostility, and encourage criminal activity.
Gang activities and turf wars: Chillicothe is home to several gangs, including the Bloods, Crips, and the Folk Nation. These gangs are involved in a variety of criminal acts, including drug trafficking, robbery, and murder. They frequently struggle over territory, money, and respect, culminating in violent confrontations and shootings.
Lack of law enforcement and community resources: Chillicothe has a small number of police officers and community workers to combat crime. The city’s police-to-population ratio is 1.6, lower than the state and national averages. The city also lacks sufficient resources and initiatives for crime prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation.
The high frequency of violence in Chillicothe has major effects on both people and the community.
Some of the negative impacts include:
Worry and Insecurity: Many Chillicothe residents live in continual worry of being victims of crime. They avoid going out at night, strolling alone, and visiting specific locations. They also have little trust in the authorities and the legal system.
Bodily and Mental Health Issues: Violence can result in bodily damage, disability, and death. It can also result in mental health issues like stress, anxiety, sadness, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These can have an impact on both individual and societal well-being and productivity.
Economic and social losses: Violence can cause harm to the city’s infrastructure, property, and enterprises. It can also reduce residents’ income, employment, and educational possibilities. These can stymie the economic and social development of the city and state.
Conclusion
Chillicothe is Ohio’s most violent town and one of the most dangerous in the nation. The city has high rates of violent crime, poverty, and unemployment. Violence has diverse and multifaceted causes, with catastrophic and far-reaching repercussions. The city requires immediate and comprehensive solutions to combat crime and improve the quality of life for its citizens.