Monroe, Louisiana has recently been labeled as the most dangerous city in America by NeighborhoodScout.com, a ranking that city officials are vigorously contesting.

Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo and Police Chief Eugene Ellis argue that the data used to justify this ranking is flawed and misrepresentative. According to them, the study includes crime statistics from surrounding areas that share zip codes with Monroe but are not part of the city. These areas, such as Town and Country, Swartz, Lakeshore, Richwood, Morehouse Parish, and Union Parish, contribute to a skewed portrayal of Monroe’s crime rate.

Chief Ellis emphasizes that the data used by NeighborhoodScout.com is outdated and incorrect, relying on crime figures from 2016. He asserts that the city’s own data, reported to the FBI, does not align with the numbers used in the ranking.

City leaders plan to release a full report to refute these claims and reassure residents of Monroe’s safety. They will also host a round table discussion to address the findings and discuss strategies to reduce crime rates.

The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 22, 2018, at the Monroe Public Safety Center.