Crime statistics released today show a decrease in persons, property and overall criminal code offences in the first quarter of 2013. However, crime including theft of motor vehicles and possession of stolen goods has gone up in the City.

The number of motor vehicle thefts has drastically risen from 158 so far this year as opposed to 107 in the first quarter of 2012. This is a 47.7% increase. There has also been an increase in possession of stolen goods with 77 so far this year while in the same quarter in 2012 there were 55. This is an increase of 40% over last year.

However, the City saw 16.8% fewer total persons crimes over this time last year, which includes everything from offences such as homicide, robbery and assault. Total property crimes are also down 1.5%, which includes offences like break and enter, arson and fraud.

“We are happy to see the number of offences decrease in most areas with significant improvement in the number of persons crimes. We continue to work on the role of policing, perceptions of safety, crime prevention, and community involvement as it relates to the safety charter. People can expect to see continued focus on these areas as we move through 2013 and into 2014,” said Craig Curtis, City manager.

Overall, the City saw 9.1% fewer criminal code offences over this time last year.

“City council is committed to the continued delivery of community safety initiatives, which involves everyone from police to businesses, community agencies and citizens,” said Mayor Morris Flewwelling. “Red Deer is a safe community, but we can, and should, always explore ways to improve the overall health and safety of our City as identified in City council’s strategic direction.”

Crime statistics will be released on a quarterly basis in April, July, October and January.

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com