2017 Most Violent Houston Suburbs
Published: Nov 23, 2018 in Criminal Defense, Violent CrimesThe Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently released data outlining violent crimes committed throughout the United States in 2017. This information has been used to locate the most violent neighborhoods in Houston. If you or someone you know has been charged with ones of these crimes, you should contact a Houston violent crimes lawyer immediately to learn more about your situation.
Attorney Ned Barnett can offer his years of extensive experience in helping you fight your charges. To schedule a free, initial evaluation of your case, contact us today at (713) 222-6767.
What Houston Suburbs Were at the Top of the List?
The Houston Chronicle has obtained the city’s information provided by the FBI, and divided the total number of known violent crimes in each neighborhood by the area’s total population. That number was then multiplied by 1,000 to decipher how many violent crimes were committed per 1,000 residents.
Based on the numbers, the city of Houston is by far the most violent, with 10.95 crimes committed per every 1,000 residents. While many of the other areas didn’t even come near this figure, Humble is close. In 2017, the city reported 147 violent crimes, which comes out to a crime rate of 9.4 per 1,000 residents.
Conversely, Shoreacres was very last on the list. Located in the Bay Area, this neighborhood did not report a single violent crime in all of 2017.
What is Considered a Violent Crime?
A violent crime is defined as an act committed against another person that involves force or the threat of force. Using force usually means brandishing a deadly weapon, such as a gun or knife, but it can also mean physical contact. If you threaten deadly force but don’t actually use it, you can still be charged with a violent crime. The criminal court sees a sincere threat of violence to be just as serious as actual violence.
Like most states, Texas categorizes what is considered a “violent crime” in the state’s laws. Such offenses in the state include:
- Homicide
- Assault
- Aggravated assault
- Robbery
- Aggravated robbery
- Kidnapping
- Domestic violence
Charges for violent crimes can vary from a misdemeanor to a capital felony. The most minor charge may include a fine up to $500, whereas a capital felony can lead to life in prison and possibly even the death penalty.
Even after you pay your debt to society, you can face difficulties that stem from your conviction. Having a violent criminal record can impede your chances to get a job, own a gun, vote, or obtain visitation rights with your children. It can even stop you from getting an education – financial aid and scholarships aren’t as readily available to people with prior records.
Contact a Houston Violent Crimes Lawyer for Help Today
The time between when you are charged with a violent crime and when you face your arraignment can be very short. You may feel confused and fearful of what will happen to you. It’s important to know that you do not have to face the criminal justice process alone. Contacting a Houston violent crimes lawyer should be your first step following an arrest. At The Law Offices of Ned Barnett, we have years of experience dealing with the justice system in Texas, and we are prepared to help you with your case.
Attorney Ned Barnett will immediately begin building a defense on your behalf that focuses on obtaining the best possible outcome for you and your family. The sooner you seek legal counsel, the better your chances of being fully prepared for everything your situation entails. To schedule a free and confidential case consultation, call (713) 222-6767, or contact us online.