Residents of THIS City Living in Fear – How Crime is Causing People to Stay Inside

Crime

The homicide rate in Washington, D.C. is on track to reach its highest levels in more than two decades, forcing residents to take extra precautions for their safety. The Metropolitan Police Department data shows that homicides have risen 28% and robberies 67% compared to the same time last year – and 14% higher than 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic hit.

Stephanie Heishman from Adams Morgan told The Washington Post that instead of walking five blocks to her friend’s house for dinner she now drives due to two shootings occurring in front of her apartment over the past year. Many other people are too scared to even leave their homes during daylight hours, leading some to move out of DC altogether.

In 2019 there were almost 706,000 people living in DC; however by 2022 this had dropped below 672,000 – a loss of 20,000 people as reported by Axios earlier this year – partly attributed to a desire for more affordable housing. This situation is being exacerbated by an increase in youth violence with children as young as 11 being charged with armed robbery and multiple mass shootings taking place throughout the city.

These increasing crime rates mean that DC residents must be especially vigilant about their own safety and security when it comes to both themselves and their property; always avoiding potential hotspots of crime or less well-known areas after dark unless absolutely necessary and always being aware of one’s surroundings at all times.

Residents should also keep doors locked at home or if possible install additional security such as CCTV cameras or alarm systems for extra protection if they feel vulnerable or threatened, particularly those who live alone, are elderly, or are more vulnerable members of society who may be susceptible to being victims of crime; something which can provide an added peace of mind against any unwanted criminal activity in the area whilst allowing one go about one’s daily lives without fear or worry wherever possible.

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