Pubdate: Mon, 15 May 2006
Source: Edson Leader (CN AB)
Copyright: 2006 Edson Leader
Contact:  http://www.edsonleader.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/780
Author: Matthew Stuart

DRUG OFFENCES DOWN FOR EDSON IN 2005

The 2005 crime statistics for Edson have been compiled with a few 
surprising numbers.

After a spike in drug activity in 2004, total offences were down to 
58 from 104 leaving the RCMP with a feeling of cautious optimism. 
"We're in a bit of a transition right now," Cpl. Glenn Henry said.

"We had some high profile people that we took out."

Cpl. Henry said his detachment has been focused on keeping dealers 
off the streets and right now there has been a vacuum left that they 
will have to ensure is not filled.

But not all numbers from the annual report were encouraging-crimes 
against persons jumped by 43 incidents.

RCMP said any number of factors can lead to a rise in this type of 
crime but Henry was hoping that the number reflects public awareness 
and that more people were reporting assaults to police, whereas 
before they may have been silent.

"There's definitely more people reporting," he said.

The RCMP's zero-tolerance policy for domestic assault means people 
can be confident that if they report an incident and there is 
sufficient evidence, charges will be laid.

One other significant drop is the number of motor vehicle thefts, 
which is down to 75 from 129 in 2004.

Henry said the message that the RCMP has been trying to get out about 
keeping valuables out of sight and locking vehicle doors, seemed to 
be getting through.

"I think we have to change our perception. Even in a small town we 
have to protect ourselves," he said.

Henry added that some people were still being careless and there are 
plenty of people looking to capitalize on the less vigilant in the community.

"Those stats could easily go up again," Henry said.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman