Photo by cottonbro studio
Covington, Georgia, is a small town located in the eastern part of the state, with a population of approximately 15,000 people. While it may not have the same level of crime as larger cities like Atlanta, many residents and potential visitors may still be curious about the town’s crime rate and safety record.
According to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting program, the total number of reported crimes in Covington decreased from 2019 to 2020. In 2019, there were 548 reported crimes in the town, which decreased to 480 in 2020. This represents a 12.4% decrease in reported crimes.
When broken down by type of crime, the most common reported offenses in Covington are property crimes, which include burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft. In 2020, there were 373 reported property crimes in the town, which accounted for approximately 77.7% of all reported crimes. The remaining 22.3% of reported crimes were classified as violent crimes, which include homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
While the overall crime rate in Covington has decreased in recent years, it’s worth noting that the town still has a higher crime rate than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout, a website that provides crime data and analysis for communities across the United States, Covington’s crime rate is 39 per 1,000 residents. This is higher than the national average of 22.0 per 1,000 residents.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that crime rates can be affected by a number of factors, including population density, poverty levels, and the type of industries and businesses in the area. In the case of Covington, the town’s relatively high poverty rate of 22.5%, according to U.S. Census Bureau data, may be contributing to its higher crime rate. Additionally, the town has a number of industries and businesses, including a thriving film industry, that may attract individuals who are more likely to engage in criminal activity.
Despite its higher crime rate, Covington has a number of measures in place to help keep residents and visitors safe. The town has its own police department, which works closely with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office to provide law enforcement services to the community. The Covington Police Department also offers a range of community programs and resources, including a citizens’ police academy, neighborhood watch programs, and a prescription drug disposal program.
In addition to law enforcement efforts, Covington also has a number of community organizations and initiatives aimed at improving safety and reducing crime in the area. For example, the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce has a public safety committee that works with local law enforcement to identify and address safety concerns in the community.
While Covington, Georgia, has a higher crime rate than the national average, it has experienced a decrease in reported crimes in recent years. The town’s higher poverty rate and industries may contribute to its higher crime rate, but there are a number of efforts underway to keep the community safe, including law enforcement programs and community organizations. As with any community, it’s important for residents and visitors to be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions.