Pubdate: Fri, 29 Jul 2005
Source: Hamilton Mountain News (CN ON)
Copyright: 2005 Brabant Newspapers
Contact:  http://www.hamiltonmountainnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3415
Author: Peggy Chapman

HAMILTON TAKES LEAD IN CRIME REDUCTION

Hamilton has taken a strong lead in crime reduction.

Statistics Canada just released its Crime Statistics for 2004 showing 
Hamilton with a 13 per cent decrease in overall crime.

No other city even came close to Hamilton in crime reduction. Ottawa ranked 
second at 10 per cent.

Most of the 27 other cities included in the report showed declines in the 
lower single digits.

Police Chief Mullan admitted the numbers are impressive and in the past 
Hamilton generally mirrored stats of the overall country.

"This shows that Hamilton is saying no to crime," said the chief. "This is 
not just an effort by the police service alone, but shows an effort by 
everyone in the community."

He made special mention of the work done in the community.

"I am very proud of our frontline officers and specialty units who took up 
my challenge to reduce crime by cracking down on crack," the chief said. 
"The utilization of intelligence led policing, our supportive community 
partners such as Hamilton Crime Stoppers and community members standing up 
against crime has culminated in this phenomenal accomplishment".

Countrywide

There was a drop in violent crimes across the country. However, homicides 
were up by 12 per cent. Robberies with firearms fell four per cent; 
property crime dropped three per cent, but drug crimes rose 11 per cent in 2004.
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MAP posted-by: Beth