Crime in Otago Rural down 7.2%

Total recorded crime in Otago Rural (the local authority areas of Queenstown, Central Otago and Waitaki) has continued to drop, decreasing by 7.2 % in the year to 30 June 2011. The total number of recorded offences was 5589, down from 6024. "These figures continue to build on the crime reductions made over the past two years across Otago Rural and reflect the efforts of our staff, in conjunction with our partner agencies. We are all working hard to reduce crime," said Inspector Mike Cook, Area Commander for Otago Rural. Police have continued to make improvements in local tasking and co-ordination processes with a focus on crime prevention and reducing victimisation. These efforts have contributed to the reduction in crime, Inspector Cook said. The number of offences classed as acts intending to cause injury (predominantly assaults) decreased by 14.8% (580 down from 681). Theft and related offences (including motor vehicle theft) decreased by 13.5% (1416 down from 1637). Offences related to property damage continued their downward trend and were down 5.4% (1083 down from 1145). District results Overall the Southern Police District achieved a further 10.3% decrease in reported crime in the year to 30 June 2011, following on from a 3.6% decrease in the year to June 2010. "This is a fantastic result. Southern Police District is continuing to build on its platform of success and in real terms; there are 10,000 fewer crimes reported than there were 15 years ago," said Southern District Commander, Superintendent Bob Burns. "We've made changes designed to get us on the front foot in addressing crime problems. These changes have included improving our understanding of crime through better intelligence processes and being more innovative and flexible with our deployment practices." "These results are a clear indicator of what we can do with motivated staff, positive and robust community partnerships and a clear direction. We will continue to be more and more innovative in making our communities a safer place to live." ENDS Full details of the 2010/2011 crime statistics are available at www.stats.govt.nz and www.police.govt.nz/service/statistics