Crime in the Desert

Realtors keep away from topics that may steer clients to or away from a given area for fear of running afoul of antidiscrimination laws.  Buyers should take it upon themselves to investigate an area they are seriously considering.  For example, Desert Hot Springs (pop approx. 25,000) was recently raided by 700 federal, state and local police.  They searched for 450 gang members, 185 probationees and 100 parollees.  120 arrests were made. (The Desert Sun March 28, 2009).  DHS is said to be popular to criminals for its low cost of living, good weather, small police force and proximity to larger centers.  Buyers should check to see how their target community ranks in crime.  Google crime <city>.  the statistics are statistics and may not tell you much, so call the local police and ask your Realtor.    

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