Poland, Struthers among safest cities in Ohio

YOUNGSTOWN – Poland Township and Struthers are among the safest cities in Ohio.

According to Safewise, a home security industry group, Poland Township has the fourth-lowest crime rate in the state. It recorded 0.24 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and 4.17 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2013, the most recent year for FBI statistics.

Here’s what Safewise said about Poland Township:

“From 2012 to 2013, Poland Township reduced reports of property crime from 112 to only 51 incidents, with the largest drop seen in reports of larceny, which dropped from 77 to 29 incidents in one year. Police programs such as Bicycle Patrol and the House Watch Program have helped the police department become more engaged with the community, and consequentially better able to provide crime prevention and protection. For a nostalgic walk through New England’s past in a safe community, visit Poland Township.”

Struthers ranks as the 46th-safest community in the state. It recorded 1.04 violent crimes and 15.87 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2013.

Here’s what Safewise said about Struthers:

“As the community of Struthers grows and develops, so does the local police department. With the recent additions of a K-9 patrol dog and a bicycle patrol unit, the police department is able to expand their reach and better protect the residents of Struthers. With zero reports of murder and arson, one report of robbery, and only three motor vehicle thefts reported in 2013, this secure community can only get safer as the city expands and develops.”

Overall, according to Safewise, Ohio saw a steady decrease in violent crime starting in 2000 and property crime rates have decreased since 2001. For the complete Safest Cities report and more security information, visit www.safewise.com.