Property crimes have dropped about 46 per cent this year, according to the latest statistics released by the RCMP.
There were 159 incidents from January to September, compared to 297 over the same period last year.
“It’s very encouraging, especially for the officers involved in the day-to-day work,” said Staff Sgt. Suki Manj. “It’s a good feeling for them to look and see they’re making a dent.”
He attributes the reduction in property crimes not only to the efforts of his members, the but to greater public participation.
“People are better educated on how to keep themselves from being victimized,” said Manj. “Our message is consistent with getting the public involved and having them be part of the solution as well. Every piece of information is valuable to us and as you can see it does result in ultimately reducing the crime.”
The prolific offender and social chronic programs have also helped put pressure on criminals and connect them with community supports, he added.
Auto theft is down 52 per cent this year, from 42 to 20, while theft from vehicles has decreased 59 per cent to 62 from 151. Residential break and enters fell 37 per cent to 40, while break and enters to sheds and detached garages dropped 38 per cent to 18. Business break and enters have jumped slightly this year to 19, from 12 in 2011.
Manj attributes this increase to a couple people who were arrested earlier this year, noting that numbers have since returned to normal.
“The statistics prove that our policing is adequate or more than adequate,” said Mayor Susan Johnston. “To have it looking so good is pretty phenomenal at this stage.”