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Property Crime Trends in Perryville, Kentucky: A Small City's Remarkable Safety Transformation
CATEGORY
Crime
DATA
Property Crime
Percent Owner Occupied
Median Income
Population
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Crime
Property Crime
Percent Owner Occupied
Median Income
Population
Perryville, Kentucky, presents an interesting case study in property crime trends. With a population of 2,342 in 2022 and covering an area of 0.78 square miles, this small city has experienced significant population growth over the past decade. From 2013 to 2022, the population increased by 23.8%, from 1,920 to 2,342 residents. During this same period, the city saw a dramatic decrease in property crimes, from 6 incidents in 2013 to zero reported cases from 2015 onwards.
The burglary trend in the city shows a rapid decline. In 2013, there was one reported burglary, constituting 0.01% of the state's total. This equated to a rate of 0.52 burglaries per 1,000 residents. However, from 2014 onwards, no burglaries were reported. This sharp decrease, coupled with the growing population, suggests a significant improvement in home security or community vigilance. The absence of burglaries in recent years is particularly noteworthy given the population increase, indicating a potential enhancement in local law enforcement strategies or community engagement in crime prevention.
Larceny-theft incidents also experienced a notable decline. In 2013, there were 5 reported cases, representing 0.01% of the state's total and a rate of 2.60 thefts per 1,000 residents. By 2014, this had decreased to just one incident, and from 2015 onwards, no larceny-thefts were reported. This trend is remarkable considering the population growth during this period. The complete elimination of reported larceny-thefts could suggest improved security measures in local businesses or increased community awareness and prevention efforts.
Motor vehicle theft and arson show consistent patterns of absence in the city. Throughout the entire period from 2013 to 2022, no incidents of motor vehicle theft or arson were reported. This sustained absence of these crimes, despite population growth, is indicative of a very safe environment for vehicle owners and property in general. It may reflect effective deterrence measures or simply a culture of respect for property within the community.
When examining correlations between property crime trends and other socioeconomic factors, a strong inverse relationship appears to exist with median income. As the median income rose from $39,863 in 2013 to $57,079 in 2022, property crimes decreased to zero. This suggests that improving economic conditions may have contributed to the reduction in property crimes. Additionally, the increase in homeownership from 75% in 2013 to 88% in 2022 correlates with the decline in property crimes, potentially indicating that a higher stake in the community leads to lower crime rates.
Applying predictive models based on the current trends, it's reasonable to forecast that the city will likely maintain its zero property crime rate for the next five years, extending to 2029. This prediction is based on the consistent absence of reported property crimes since 2015 and the positive trends in economic indicators and homeownership.
In summary, Perryville has demonstrated a remarkable transformation in its property crime landscape. The complete elimination of reported property crimes since 2015, despite significant population growth, suggests a highly effective approach to community safety. This trend, coupled with rising incomes and increased homeownership, paints a picture of a thriving, safe community. If these trends continue, Perryville could serve as a model for small-city crime prevention and community development.
