CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Rural, picturesque Ross County has experienced a concerning surge in violent crime. Over the past year, more than two dozen shootings have been reported, leaving residents anxious for their safety and demanding answers from local authorities. However, officials and law enforcement have remained tight-lipped about their efforts to combat the rise in crime, causing frustration among residents.
Ross County since 2011 has witnessed a sharp increase in violent crime, some involving minors under 17 years old, raising concerns about the safety of the area’s youth. The lack of transparency about local officials’ and law enforcement’s plans to address the issue has left residents feeling helpless and questioning the effectiveness of their leaders.
According to data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, gun-related crimes in Ohio increased by 24% from 2019 to 2020, with Ross County and Chillicothe reflecting this statewide trend. The prevalence of guns and easy access to them, along with other factors like pandemic-related stress, economic downturn, and gang activity in nearby Columbus, are believed to be contributing to the rise in violent crime.
As crime rates reach alarming levels, many residents feel unsafe and afraid to walk the streets of Chillicothe. Despite their growing concerns, no concrete plans or efforts have been revealed to address the issue. The community is urging local officials and law enforcement to prioritize transparency and safety to effectively combat the rise of violent crime in Ross County.