West Virginia Violent Crime Rate – All You Need to Know

West Virginia is a state steeped in rugged landscapes and rich history. It is known for its tight-knit communities and Appalachian beauty. However, this state is no stranger to crime and even instances of violent crime. It can be vital to understand the West Virginia violent crime rate for residents and visitors alike, especially those who will need to navigate the legal system in the state at some point.

From the vibrant college town of Morgantown to the smaller hamlets like Marlinton, knowing and understanding what violent crime is and how it appears in the state of West Virginia is crucial. Whether you have been a lifelong resident, are thinking of relocating, are planning a trip, or are finding yourself face to face with the local state justice system, the team at Crowe Law, LLC, is here to help you understand violent crimes, their frequency, and your legal options.

What Are Violent Crimes in West Virginia?

Before diving into the statistics regarding violent crime in West Virginia, it can be helpful to first understand how the state defines a violent crime. In most cases, these crimes are those that include the use or threat of physical violence or force against another individual or a piece of property. Violent crimes are usually taken quite seriously, and the consequences can be harsh. The most common violent crimes in the state include the following:

• Murder. In most cases, murder in West Virginia means that the alleged offender has intentionally, or through an act of negligence, taken the life of another. The penalties involved for a successful murder conviction in the state can be extreme.
• Manslaughter. These charges can arise when an individual is killed, and the alleged offender did not do so with malicious intent. This means that the act of killing could have arisen during a moment of passion, such as having an argument with a partner or spouse.
• Domestic violence. These violent crime charges can occur when an individual allegedly acts in a violent manner toward family members or those who live in the same household. These acts might include any physical violence or verbal threats used to cause fear or commit an act of abuse.
• Kidnapping. This crime can occur when one individual abducts or allegedly holds another individual against their will. In certain cases of kidnapping, other charges may be included, such as sexual assault or domestic violence.
• Sexual assault. This charge can include a wide range of offenses, including unwanted physical contact, forcing another individual to perform sexual acts, attempted rape, or rape itself. These are serious crimes, and there are several harsh penalties involved if a person is successfully convicted by the state.

West Virginia Violent Crime Statistics

In a recent study, 20% of West Virginia residents who were interviewed reported that they had experienced a violent crime in the 8 months prior to the survey. It is true that West Virginia is no stranger to violent crime; however, your chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime in the state are about 1 in 377.

The population of the state currently stands at around 1,770,071. In the last year, West Virginia has seen 87 murders, 823 cases of rape, 199 robberies, and 3,590 instances of assault. This puts the rate of these violent crimes around 0.05%, 0.46%, 0.11%, and 2.03%, respectively.

If you find yourself arrested for a violent crime in West Virginia, it is vital that you seek skilled criminal defense counsel and representation. The correct attorney can make all the difference when it comes to the outcome of a case and can help keep you from becoming just another statistic. If you are charged with one of these crimes, the state will do everything in its power to make you just another number.

Don’t let this happen. Instead, turn to an attorney who can help you better understand your legal options, assist you in establishing an alibi or constructing another solid defense strategy, and work to minimize the penalties you could face if you are successfully convicted.

FAQs

What City in West Virginia Has the Worst Crime Rate?

In West Virginia, the city currently boasting the worst violent crime rate is Bluefield. The chances of becoming a victim are 1 in 79, and there are a total of 1,267 violent crimes out of every 100,000 happening every day. If you are arrested in Bluefield for a violent crime, having an attorney on your side is vital.

What Are Some Defenses for Violent Crime in WV?

In West Virginia, there are several defenses that can be used in a violent crime case, depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime itself. These defenses can include a lack of necessary evidence to prove your guilt, having an alibi, lacking motive or intent, or calling into question the legality of your arrest.

What Are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in West Virginia?

Depending on the nature and severity of the violent crime, an alleged offender can receive several penalties in West Virginia. These penalties can include jail time, significant fines, probation, and even anger management classes. Your criminal defense attorney can work to mitigate these penalties and protect your future and freedoms.

How Long Does a Criminal Case Take in West Virginia?

It can be difficult to offer an exact number as to how long a criminal case might take in the state of West Virginia due to the fact that there are several variables involved in these cases, which can impact how long a case might take. These variables can include the complexity of the case and the current caseload of the courts.

Speak with a Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyer in West Virginia Today

No matter if you are a resident, a hopeful transplant, a tourist, or an individual who has been charged with a violent crime, understanding these West Virginia crime statistics can be beneficial. If you have been charged with a violent crime, such as rape, assault, or domestic violence, contact Crowe Law, LLC today and schedule a free consultation. We are here to fight for you.