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Property Crime Trends in Spearville, Kansas: A Small City's Remarkable 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
Spearville, located in Kansas, presents an intriguing case study in property crime trends. With a population of 1,446 in 2022, this small community has experienced significant changes in its property crime landscape. Between 2011 and 2019, the city witnessed a dramatic decrease in total property crimes, from 18 incidents to zero. This 100% reduction occurred alongside a modest population growth of 0.29% over the same period.
The burglary trend in the city shows a notable decrease. In 2011, there were 5 reported burglaries, constituting 0.03% of the state's total. This translates to approximately 3.63 burglaries per 1,000 residents. By 2019, burglaries had dropped to zero, indicating a 100% decrease. This significant reduction outpaced population growth, suggesting improved security measures or community vigilance. The city's contribution to the state's burglary statistics also diminished to 0%, reflecting a positive shift in local safety.
Larceny-theft incidents followed a similar downward trend. In 2011, 12 cases were reported, representing 0.02% of the state's total and approximately 8.71 incidents per 1,000 residents. By 2019, larceny-theft cases had also reduced to zero, marking a 100% decrease. This substantial improvement in property security occurred despite population fluctuations, pointing to effective local strategies in crime prevention.
Motor vehicle theft in the city showed a complete elimination. From a single reported case in 2011 (0.02% of the state's total, or 0.73 per 1,000 residents), the number dropped to zero by 2019. This 100% reduction is particularly noteworthy given the typically persistent nature of vehicle-related crimes in many communities.
Arson cases were not reported in either 2011 or 2019, maintaining a consistent zero incidence rate. This absence of arson cases contributes positively to the overall safety profile of the community.
A strong correlation exists between the reduction in property crimes and the increase in home ownership percentages. From 2013 to 2022, the percentage of owner-occupied homes rose from 77% to 86%, coinciding with the period of crime reduction. This suggests a possible link between community investment through homeownership and reduced property crime rates.
Applying predictive models based on the available data, it's projected that the city will maintain its zero property crime rate through 2029 (five years from now). This forecast assumes the continuation of current trends and the effectiveness of existing crime prevention strategies.
In summary, Spearville has demonstrated a remarkable transformation in its property crime landscape. The complete elimination of reported property crimes between 2011 and 2019, coupled with increasing homeownership rates, paints a picture of a community that has significantly enhanced its safety and security. These trends, if maintained, position the city as a model for small-town crime reduction strategies.
