(Part 5) Population boom leads to increase in crime rate
Among the unwelcome changes happening in the Bakken region is the rise in crime. Locals in the oil boom towns grew up in quiet and secure environments but life in these towns, although still relatively peaceful, have undoubtedly changed.
Many of the workers at the Bakken region are young men with money to spend; this is likely the reason alcohol-fueled fist fights and illegal drugs are growing problems in the region. Drug cartels are purportedly targeting the Bakken region, knowing the men in the area can afford the vice.
Whereas locals grew up without the need to lock their cars or protect their properties, they are now discovering that they can’t live like they used to. Only during the recent oil boom have some of the towns’ prisons become filled to capacity. Several years ago, crimes were few and far between in these towns.
Today, petty theft and other crimes are definitely on the rise. There are also a few serious cases such as murder and locals are wary that the oil boom have resulted in such change. Rape is also allegedly on the rise but according to online reports, many of such cases are not reported to authorities.
The area may still be relatively safe compared to other big cities, but the increase in crime rate was so sharp that long-time residents were caught unprepared.
Terry Smeader
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