SASless - I think you'll find Louisiana has a higher crime rate in all major categories than California. Indeed most of the Southern (generally Republican) states are higher crime. Wiki is a good pointer to various databases, colorful maps, etc.
As for immigration - well I see the point you're trying to make but that really has to be seen as a Federal issue. State hands are pretty tied, for better or worse. By and large border states will of course have bigger issues but every State in the Union is trying to figure this one out. Don't hold your breath for action from Congress. And until everybody - even the good folks from Wyoming - is prepared to pay ten bucks for a lettuce we can say everybody benefits - or is pained - equally.
Just my 2c ....