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Article courtesy of Anidjar & Levine.
- Wyoming records the highest rate of drug and narcotic violations in October 2023, with 74.16 incidents per 100,000 residents.
- All of the top ten states with the highest rates are Republican-leaning, while the safest states tend to be Democrat-leaning.
- New Jersey ranks as the safest state, with only 6.74 drug and narcotic violations per 100,000 residents in October 2023.
A new study by Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Anidjar & Levine has identified the most dangerous states for trick-or-treating this Halloween, with Wyoming topping the list due to its high rate of drug and narcotic violations reported during October 2023.
The study analyzed data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, focusing on the rate of drug and narcotic violations reported in each state during October 2023. The findings aim to help parents and guardians make informed decisions to ensure a safe Halloween experience for children across the United States.
Top 5 Most Dangerous States for Trick-or-Treating
1. Wyoming
Wyoming ranks as the most dangerous state for trick-or-treating this Halloween, recording the highest rate of drug and narcotic violations in October 2023, at 74.16 incidents per 100,000 residents. Parents and guardians should exercise caution, supervise children closely, and consider participating in organized community events.
2. South Dakota
South Dakota holds the second spot, with a rate of 65.01 drug and narcotic violations per 100,000 residents. For a safer Halloween experience, families are encouraged to visit well-lit neighborhoods and attend local festivals or trunk-or-treat events.
3. North Dakota
North Dakota ranks third, reporting 63.31 violations per 100,000 residents. As a Republican-leaning state with widespread rural communities, North Dakota’s residents should be mindful of safety precautions during Halloween, such as staying in familiar areas and keeping a close eye on children at all times.
4. South Carolina
With 62.16 drug and narcotic violations per 100,000 residents, South Carolina is fourth on the list. As a Republican-leaning state, parents in South Carolina should accompany their children, stick to predetermined routes, and consider daytime trick-or-treating to enhance safety.
5. Mississippi
Mississippi ranks fifth, with a rate of 56.43 violations per 100,000 residents. Families are advised to participate in community-sponsored events, check local law enforcement advisories, and remain vigilant throughout the evening.
Top 5 Most Dangerous States for Trick-or-Treating
| Rank | State | 2020 Election Result | Drug/Narcotic Violations per 100,00 Residents (October 2023) |
| 1 | Wyoming | Republican | 74.16 |
| 2 | South Dakota | Republican | 65.01 |
| 3 | North Dakota | Republican | 63.31 |
| 4 | South Carolina | Republican | 62.16 |
| 5 | Mississippi | Republican | 56.43 |
Top 5 Safest States for Trick-or-Treating
46. Massachusetts
Massachusetts ranks 46th, reporting a low rate of 11.69 drug and narcotic violations per 100,000 residents in October 2023. Families can feel relatively secure while trick-or-treating but should continue to follow standard safety practices, such as staying in groups and wearing visible costumes.
47. New York
New York is 47th on the list, with 11.68 violations per 100,000 residents. Parents are encouraged to plan trick-or-treat routes in well-known neighborhoods and ensure children are accompanied by adults.
48. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania ranks 48th, recording 11.41 violations per 100,000 residents. Pennsylvania offers a relatively safe environment for Halloween activities, though vigilance is always recommended.
49. Connecticut
With a rate of 9.79 violations per 100,000 residents, Connecticut holds the 49th position. Families can enjoy Halloween festivities with confidence but should remain mindful of general safety guidelines.
50. New Jersey
New Jersey is ranked as the safest state for trick-or-treating, with only 6.74 drug and narcotic violations per 100,000 residents in October 2023. Parents and children can look forward to a fun and secure Halloween experience, while still adhering to basic safety practices.
Top 5 Safest States for Trick-or-Treating
| Rank | State | 2020 Election Result | Drug/Narcotic Violations per 100,00 Residents (October 2023) |
| 46 | Massachusetts | Democrat | 11.69 |
| 47 | New York | Democrat | 11.68 |
| 48 | Pennsylvania | Democrat | 11.41 |
| 49 | Connecticut | Democrat | 9.79 |
| 50 | New Jersey | Democrat | 6.74 |
Marc Anidjar, Partner at Anidjar & Levine, commented on the findings,
“While Halloween is a time for fun and community engagement, it’s crucial for parents and guardians to prioritize safety, especially in states with higher rates of drug and narcotic violations. We recommend families stay informed about their local areas, stick to well-lit and familiar neighborhoods, and always accompany young children during trick-or-treating. Inspecting all treats before consumption and participating in organized community events can also enhance safety. By taking these precautions, we can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone.”
Conclusion
These insights highlight the importance of community awareness and proactive measures to ensure the safety of children during Halloween festivities across the nation. Families are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions regardless of their state’s ranking.
Sources
- FBI Crime Data Explorer – https://cde.ucr.cjis.gov/LATEST/webapp/#/pages/explorer/crime/crime-trend
- 2020 Election Results – https://www.270towin.com
Methodology
The rate of drug/narcotic violations reported during October 2023 was retrieved for each state in the U.S. from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. The data represents the number of reported offenses per 100,000 residents. States were ranked based on this measure to identify the most dangerous and safest states for trick-or-treating this Halloween.



