New Crime Data Shows Pineville As One Of The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities In North Carolina

PINEVILLE, NC.– New crime data shows Pineville as one of the top 10 most dangerous cities in North Carolina, and it’s not sitting well with residents.

WCCB talked to Pineville Chief of Police on the phone who says even with a population of a little over 8,000 people, he wasn’t surprised that Pineville made the top ten list of dangerous cities in North Carolina, but it’s not why you might think.

In 2016 — there were 614 violent crimes per capita and 14,154 property crimes per capita. Charles Hollar has lived in Pineville for 8 years, and finds those numbers hard to believe.

“Shocked, I don’t really, I question that. However, I just feel really safe here, no hesitations at all. I don’t see it,” says Hollar.

Chief of Pineville  Police Rob Merchant told WCCB there’s an explanation. He says Pineville has 9 and a half million square feet of retail, with a small population. What drives the crime rates up are property crimes–like shoplifting or car break-ins.

Owner of A & R Workshop in Pineville Maureen Anders, says she and her business have never felt threatened.

“I brought my business here, on purpose because I love Pineville and I think it’s a great place to be,” says Anders.