Crime in Armagh has dropped dramatically over the last 10 years and is now at its lowest since electronic recording of crime was introduced in April 2001.
The latest annual crime statistics, published by the Police Service of Northern Ireland, have revealed that crime in Armagh has reduced by 4.7 percent during the financial year 2013/14, a reduction of 108 crimes – that is 108 fewer victims of crime!
Armagh Area Commander, Chief Inspector Ian Campbell, said: “I am delighted to be able to announce this decrease in crime and want to reassure the local community that we will continue to focus on the issues that cause most concern.
“Criminal damage in the Armagh area has fallen by 7.3 per cent and burglary is down by more than 24 per cent, a reduction of 75 burglaries. I believe these decreases have come about through targeted patrols, robust investigations and with the help of local residents who have taken the time to secure their property and report suspicious activity in their areas.
“During this financial year we have also been able to resolve more crimes. We have seen crime outcomes rise from 26.8 per cent in the previous year to 29.6 per cent this year. This means that more victms of crimes are seeing seeing closure to crime incidents.”
There has been a slight rise in some crime in the Armagh Area. Violence against the person has risen by more than 18 per cent. This is an increase which is mirrored across E District and also the province.
Chief Inspector Campbell continued: “We have been focusing on violence against the person over the last number of months, working with licensed premises and providing a more visible presence during night time economy hours to deter alcohol fuelled incidents. We have also been working with local schools and youth groups to educate our young people about the dangers of becoming involved in violent crime.
“We are looking ahead now over the next year and we will continue to focus on the priorites you have raised through the local policing plan. The rural community has asked for our support in addressing thefts of plant machinery and cattle and we will continue to work with them to deter and detect this type of crime.
“Working hand in hand with the communities in the Armagh area has enabled us to catch criminals, prevent crime from occurring and investigate crimes in the most effective way. This ongoing support is vital and I would ask every resident to work with us – talk to us and tell us what is going on in your local neighbourhood and if you have any concerns, pick up a phone and let us know so that we can take action and work with you to make your communtiy safer for everyone.”
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