While I agree that the police do little in the way of "petty crime", as in theft, I believe that Columbia City, White Center and other areas of the like do not have any more crime of this nature than does Bellevue, Lynnwood, etc. I want to say there are certain Park and Rides on the North and East side that have more cars stolen than anywhere else.
That said, White Center (and I suppose Columbia City, having never been there) is full of seedy, wannabe thugs and real thugs just looking for an easy mark. As you said, Bellevue is somewhat protected (perhaps by wealth and lack of disparity) from the grunge you see in Seattle and beyond. Some might cite a lack of culture, but I disagree. It is just different and people will fall into a neighborhood of they're taste.
Either way, theft and petty crime is annoying and damaging to a community.
P.S. Fremont does have it's occasional share of pimps, hoe's and drug traffickers. I know, I'm there now!
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