Pubdate: Wed, 27 Sep 2006 Source: Goldstream Gazette (Victoria, CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Goldstream News Gazette Contact: http://www.goldstreamgazette.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1291 Author: Cpl. Gord Bedginfield CLARIFYING ON CRIME There have been community conversations in the West Shore which have drawn the mistaken conclusion that a massive drug problem is fueling widespread crime. This is not the case and I would like to clarify. It is true that during the first half of 2006, the West Shore RCMP detachment has noted an increase in theft of vehicles and theft from vehicles. Residential break-ins are slightly up as well. To draw the conclusion that an uncontrolled drug culture is responsible, and that the trend will increase is not completely accurate. There are many factors which influence a spike in crime statistics. In 2005, we saw the lowest thefts from vehicles in the West Shore over the past five years. It is logical to assume that 2006 may have an increase over a record low year. Although drug-addicted youths are responsible for many of these property crimes, this factor cannot be considered in isolation. One must also consider the increase of vehicles and houses in the area. The occurrence numbers volleyed around in the media and the community are raw occurrence numbers, not numbers related to population or vehicle rates. I think we will all agree that the West Shore has grown substantially over the past five years. One must also consider that a very small number of misguided individuals can create a rather large spike in criminal involvement. These crime stats will fluctuate as the individuals are identified, taken before the courts and removed from the streets. The recent community crime prevention meeting at Isabelle Reader Theatre was an event planned months ago and was not in response to public pressure for action. Further crime prevention meetings will continue to occur on the West Shore, as they always have. Enforcement activity has always been a police action and will continue. One solution to reduce crime is to reduce opportunity. Please remove valuables from your vehicles. Purchase and use a theft deterrent device for your vehicle. Be aware of activity in your community and call police if you see something suspicious. Lock the doors to your residence. Crime prevention is a community activity. The West Shore municipalities continue to be safe communities. By working with the police at reducing opportunity, residents can ensure their property remains safe and their communities continue to grow strong and crime resistant. Generally, the crime rate is falling in B.C. The Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General website contains crime stats for the complete province and can be found at www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/police-services/publication/index.htm#costs. Cpl. Gord Bedginfield NCO i/c Community Policing West Shore RCMP - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman