Darby, located in the center of Pennsylvania, is a little town with a notorious reputation: it is one of the most hazardous localities in the country. Despite its historical origins and community pride, Darby has encountered serious issues, including crime rates that have sparked national alarm.
Darby’s residents manage daily life despite heightened safety concerns, as their picturesque streets and ancient buildings contrast with disturbing crime numbers. From property crimes to more serious situations, the municipality must deal with the intricacies of urban concerns in a small-town context.
As discussions over safety measures and community policing heat up, Darby reflects on the larger problems of American towns attempting to blend local charm with the requirement of guaranteeing public safety. Join us as we examine the realities and initiatives driving Darby’s quest for a safer future.
What Makes Darby so Dangerous?
Darby is a town that has struggled for many years. It was once a thriving manufacturing center, but it plummeted following the Great Depression and never recovered. Darby has suffered from unemployment, poverty, narcotics, gangs, and corruption.
Many of the structures and infrastructure are decrepit or neglected. Darby also lacks resources and services, including police, education, health care, and recreation. Darby’s crime problem isn’t new. In 2015, Darby was named as Pennsylvania’s second most dangerous city, trailing only Chester.
In 2018, Darby was ranked one of America’s 100 most dangerous cities. In 2020, Darby had 152 reported violent crimes, including 3 murders, 15 rapes, 46 robberies, and 88 assaults. Darby also committed 328 property crimes, including burglary, theft, and vehicle theft.
What is Being Done to Improve Darby’s Safety?
Despite the dire circumstances, Darby is not hopeless. There are some attempts underway to improve the town’s safety and quality of life. For example, in 2019, the state awarded Darby a $1 million grant to restore the downtown area and attract new businesses and residents.
Darby also collaborated with the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office to develop Operation Safe Streets, a crime prevention effort designed to reduce violence and drug trafficking in the town. In addition, some community organizations and clubs are attempting to improve Darby.
For example, the Darby Borough Community Development Corporation (DBCDC) is a non-profit organization that offers a variety of programs and services to Darby citizens, including youth mentorship, senior care, food bank, and housing aid. The DBCDC also organizes events and activities to encourage civic participation and social solidarity in the municipality.
