DIDSBURY - The interim Didsbury RCMP detachment commander has given town council an update on recent local activities, including crime statistics for the first six months of 2021.
The review came during the recent regularly scheduled council meeting, held in person and online.
Staff Sgt. Stephen Browne presented a verbal and written report to council, including snapshots of human resources, financial data and crime trends.
There were a total of 248 Criminal Code offences reported in the first six months of 2021, compared with 254 in the same period last year.
“The general crime trend in the community is on the downturn,” said Browne.
Community priorities for the detachment are persons crime first, followed by property crime.
Regarding persons crimes, the report states, in part, that, “Didsbury RCMP members have been involved in several persons crimes such as assault and threats during this reporting period. The RCMP is following provincial guidelines when charging for domestic violence.”
Regarding property crime, the report states, in part, that, “There is a current down trend in property-related crime. There are several factors that can be attributed to this trend. COVID social services support has played a role in the reduction for the need to commit property crime.”
From January to June 2021, 58 persons crimes were reported, including one robbery, one sexual assault, 30 assaults, two kidnapping/hostage/abduction, eight criminal harassment, 16 utter threats.
The 119 property crimes reported during the first six months of 2021 included 14 break and enters, five theft from motor vehicle, 39 thefts under $5,000, seven possession of stolen property, 17 fraud, 30 mischief damage to property, and seven mischief.
Provincial traffic offences reported during the first six months totalled 85, as well as four Criminal Code traffic offences.
“We appreciate the update and report,” said Town of Didsbury Mayor Rhonda Hunter. “Thanks very much for all you do.”
Council accepted the police report as information.
