Most Perilous Locales in Las Vegas Where Your Life May Be Endangered (Top 6)
In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, the glitz and glamour of the Strip often overshadow the concerns of safety in certain neighborhoods. While the resort areas and casinos are heavily monitored and considered safer due to high security measures and surveillance, some areas with older housing and less community oversight tend to have higher crime rates.
Charleston Heights: A Neighborhood of Concern
One such neighborhood is Charleston Heights, which ranks among the lowest income areas in the country, with 45.5% of children living below the federal poverty line. The area has a 1 in 13 chance of being the victim of any crime, making it a potentially risky destination for tourists. Between October 3-4, 2022, at least 50 crimes were reported in and around Charleston Heights, including thefts, assaults, and burglaries.
Avoiding Dangerous Neighborhoods
Tourists are generally advised to avoid North Las Vegas neighborhoods, especially those around D Street, and certain East Las Vegas neighborhoods known for higher crime. Areas beyond the immediate tourist zones without local guidance should also be avoided. Sticking to well-known areas like the Strip, downtown Fremont Street area (with usual tourist caution), and newer planned communities is generally safer.
Crime Hotspots in Las Vegas
Other dangerous neighborhoods include West Las Vegas, which has a violent crime rate that is 713% higher than the national average and is the most dangerous neighborhood in Las Vegas. Homicides are frequently reported in West Las Vegas. Naked City, located west of The Strat, has a common occurrence of violent crime and homicides. Huntridge, located in south Las Vegas, is another dangerous neighborhood known for attracting drug addicts, homeless people, and thieves.
In response to the growing number of violent crimes, particularly on Fremont Street, the local police force expanded its presence in Downtown during the summer months. During the first week of operation, police made over 350 stops and seized four firearms.
Circle Park and Beyond
Circle Park in Huntridge is well known for its history of crime, including a stabbing in 2006 and the assault and shooting of an 80-year-old lady in 2018. Despite these incidents, Circle Park is now open from 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. and it's best for tourists to avoid visiting Huntridge unless necessary. Taxis won't go to Naked City at night due to its rough reputation.
Property Crime Rates
The neighborhood around Boulder Highway in East Las Vegas has high property crime rates, 167% higher than the national average. Extended stay hotels in the East Las Vegas/Whitney area are hotbeds for property crime.
In conclusion, while Las Vegas offers a lively and exciting experience, tourists should exercise caution when venturing outside the well-known tourist areas. Sticking to safe zones like the Strip, downtown Fremont Street area, and newer planned communities is recommended to minimize risk.
A concerned tourist might question whether it's safe to visit Charleston Heights, a neighborhood in Las Vegas with a high crime rate and a low income population, especially after hearing about the 50 crimes reported there within two days. Despite the glittering casinos and gambling establishments scattered across Las Vegas, including the casino-and-gambling district of the Strip, some areas like Charleston Heights require careful consideration before a visit, as they have lower levels of community oversight and monitoring compared to the resort areas.
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