| Crime stats are not the only indicator of whether a neighborhood is safe. There may be other reasons to have a home security system. For example, the city of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, has relatively little crime. However, neighboring Albuquerque has one of the highest crime rates in the country. Rio Rancho is part of the Albuquerque Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population is very diverse with Native Americans, Hispanics, Blacks and Whites. In addition, there are many Pueblo reservations in the vicinity. Location Rio Rancho is the largest city in Sandoval County. The area is known as the “high desert.” It is a mountainous area and there are many farms. Indeed, the city is more rural than anything. Not surprisingly, many people drive long distances to work. Moreover, there are many farmers who live in isolated areas. It is a good idea to have security if it takes a while to get to work. People can see what is going on at home anytime with new wireless technology. Interestingly, the government requires residents to register alarm systems with the city. The fee permit is $25 per year. The Economy The housing market suffered during the recession. Indeed, the market is still trying to recover. Many foreclosed properties are on the market. On the other hand, the job market is on the upswing. The Intel Corporation is the largest employer in Rio Rancho. Intel’s Fab11x is one of the largest semiconductor fabrication plants in the world. Further, several large call centers, including Walmart, are located in Rio Rancho. The cost of living is lower than in many other states. That is why the area has a large population of retirees. Many say they can afford larger homes in Rio Rancho than in other areas. Crime Statistics Rio Rancho has a crime index of 35. This means it is safer than 35 percent of other U.S. cities. In addition, there are nearly 100 registered sex offenders in the city. However, nearby Albuquerque is known for its high crime rate. Violent crime in Albuquerque is 68 on a scale of 1 to 100. The national average is 41.4. Violent crime consists of murder, manslaughter, rape, robbery and aggravated assault. Meanwhile, property crime stands at 62, also higher than the national average. Property crime includes burglary, larceny, theft, motor vehicle theft and arson. It is always possible that high crime in Albuquerque could cause more crime in Rio Rancho. It is always best for residents to be prepared. Gun Ownership Many people choose to protect their homes with guns. However, statistics show self-inflicted injuries occur frequently. Interestingly, New Mexico ranks fourth on the list of states with the most gun owners. There are over 80,000 registered firearms and the population is 2 million. That equals a ratio of one gun for every 25 people. The president of a local shooting club says, “people get guns to prepare for a worst-case scenario.” Law Enforcement Presence The city’s police department is responsible for keeping order in Rio Rancho. They also receive assistance from the Sandoval Sheriff’s office. The police department is located at 500 Quantum Road Northeast in Rio Rancho. The Sheriff’s Department is located at 711 S. Camino Del Pueblo in nearby Bernalillo. The only jail in Rio Rancho is the city jail, located at the same address as the police department. Neighborhood Watch Rio Rancho may have a low crime rate due to several neighborhood watch programs. Programs are located at Trinity Estates, 1372 Wilkes Way S.E., The Ridges, 216 Saddlewood Trail, The Violeta Way Watch Group, 2017 Violeta Way, Astante Park Watch Program, 1149 Toscana Drive S.E. and Toscana @Cabezon Watch, 2140 Delfinio Drive S.W. Neighborhood watch programs can be a big deterrent to crime. It is helpful that neighbors are always looking out for each other. Casinos Some studies indicate that the presence of casinos leads to increased crime. The Rio Rancho area is home to several casinos on Native American reservations. The Sandia Casino sits at I-25 and Tramay in Albuquerque. The Santa Ana Star Center is in Rio Rancho at 3001 Civic Center Circle. The Route 66 Casino Hotel is also located in Albuquerque. The Santa Ana Star Casino has a location in Bernalillo. Studies show that casinos lead to crimes inside the facility like money laundering and organized crime. Neighboring areas experience more D.U.I.’s, burglaries and mail theft. Drugs and Gangs New Mexico has other issues that may affect its cities. The sale of methamphetamine is increasing in the state. Further, abuse of the drug is a continuing problem. Officials say some drugs are coming from Mexico. Additionally, there is a growing threat from drugs manufactured in the state. Gangs are responsible for most of the drug trade. New Mexico has an organized task force to try and halt the increase of gangs. Officials say the problem has grown in the last twenty years. Previously, gang activity was limited to neighborhoods. Today, the reach of gangs is greater and they are more violent. Better Safe Than Sorry Several home security vendors are available to consult with residents in the Rio Rancho area. Most of the major companies have offices there. Pro-Action Security Services is located at 7028 Glenn Hills Drive, NE, Rio Rancho. Next, Alpha Alarm has an office at 3888 Hawkins St. NE, Albuquerque. Reach Protection One at (505) 219-2923. Monthly monitoring is available for as low as $29.99 per month. Meanwhile, equipment costs run around $250.00. |
