As an expert in the field of housing and crime rates, I have seen firsthand the impact that crime can have on a community. In particular, the small town of Derry, New Hampshire has been facing challenges when it comes to maintaining a safe and secure environment for its residents. With a population of just over 33,000 people, Derry may seem like a peaceful and idyllic place to live. However, like any other town or city, Derry has its own share of crime.
The Crime Rate in Derry
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, Derry has a crime rate of 1,439 per 100,000 residents.This includes both violent and property crimes. To put this into perspective, the national average crime rate in the United States is 2,580 per 100,000 residents. This means that Derry's crime rate is significantly lower than the national average. However, it is important to note that Derry's crime rate has been steadily increasing over the past few years. In 2018, the town's crime rate was 1,296 per 100,000 residents, which means there was a 10% increase in just one year.
This trend is concerning for both residents and law enforcement officials.
Types of Crimes in Derry
The most common types of crimes in Derry are property crimes, which include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. In fact, property crimes make up about 90% of all reported crimes in the town. Violent crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault are less common in Derry, but they still occur. One of the main reasons for the high rate of property crimes in Derry is due to the town's close proximity to major cities like Boston and Manchester. Criminals often target smaller towns like Derry because they believe they can easily get away with their crimes without being caught.The Impact of Crime on Housing in Derry
As mentioned earlier, safety is a top priority for individuals and families when looking for a place to live.Therefore, it is no surprise that the crime rate in Derry has a direct impact on the housing market. When crime rates are high, it can be difficult for homeowners to sell their properties and for new buyers to feel comfortable investing in a home in the area. In addition, high crime rates can also lead to lower property values. This means that homeowners may not be able to sell their homes for as much as they would like, and potential buyers may be hesitant to purchase a home in an area with a high crime rate. This can create a cycle where homeowners are unable to sell their properties, leading to a decrease in demand and further lowering property values. Furthermore, high crime rates can also have an impact on rental properties.
Landlords may have difficulty finding tenants willing to live in an area with a high crime rate, which can lead to vacancies and financial losses. This can also make it difficult for landlords to attract quality tenants, as many individuals may be hesitant to rent in an area with a reputation for crime.
Efforts to Reduce Crime in Derry
The town of Derry has taken steps to address the issue of crime and improve safety for its residents. The Derry Police Department has implemented various programs and initiatives to reduce crime, such as community policing and neighborhood watch programs. They also work closely with other law enforcement agencies to share information and resources. In addition, the town has also invested in surveillance technology to help deter crime and assist in investigations.This includes installing cameras in public areas and using license plate recognition technology to track suspicious vehicles. Furthermore, the town has also focused on community outreach and education to help prevent crime. This includes working with local schools to educate students about the dangers of drugs and violence, as well as providing resources for at-risk youth.
