Why is this important?
Residents want to feel safe within their neighborhoods. When crime
rises, we experience a disintegration of the stability of our environment.
Rising crime inhibits healthy growth and devalues our investment
and business opportunities.
What is the measure?
Uniform Crime Reporting is a reporting system that provides data
on crime based on statistics submitted by local law enforcement.
Four categories are listed under violent crimes (homicide, forcible
rape, robbery, and assault); three under property crimes (burglary,
larceny and motor vehicle theft). These numbers, although not inclusive
of every crime type, give an accurate picture of the overall crime
level.
How are we doing?
From 2005 to 2007, the number of reported violent crimes increased
19.7%. Robberies and homicides have remained at very low numbers.
However, reported assaults increased 21%. Property crimes dropped
17.4% over this same period.
We are far below the State average in homicides, robberies, thefts
and motor vehicle thefts. We are above the State averages for assaults
and burglaries, and near the State average on forcible rapes.
A large percentage of crime can be traced back
to the use of methamphetamine and alcohol where most street level
enforcement efforts are concentrated. Three to five persons per day
are booked on methamphetamine (possession/influence) or alcohol
(DUI/public intoxication) related charges.
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