The number of crimes committed against people has declined nearly 10 per cent this year over last year, data shows, but crimes against property has jumped by 10 per cent.
From January to August there were 343 crimes committed against people, compared to 380 incidents during the same time last year, for a decline of 9.7 per cent, according to the Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS).
The number of incidents this year versus last show:
- Homicides: 0 / 0
- Attempted murder: 2 / 2
- Assaults, including sexual, common, with a weapon, aggravated, and against police: 188 / 188
- Robbery: 2 / 7
- Utter threats: 33 / 67
- Domestic disputes: 118 / 116
These numbers are consistent with last year and there is nothing is an anomaly, Police Chief Rick Bourassa said during the recent Board of Police Commissioners meeting.
Meanwhile, there were 928 crimes committed against property during the first eight months of this year, which is up from 844 last year, or a 10-per-cent increase.
The number of incidents this year versus last show:
- Break-ins, including business, residence and other: 203 / 170
- Motor vehicle theft: 42 / 54
- Theft over $5,000: 8 / 5
- Theft under $5,000: 434 / 357
- Arson: 8 / 12
- Mischief under $5,000: 233 / 246
The number of break-ins to residences is particularly concerning since that increased to 103 incidents from 54, or a jump of 90.7 per cent, said Bourassa. In comparison, there were 83 residential break-ins in 2019.
Last year was when the pandemic struck and forced everyone to stay home and isolate, said Supt. Devon Oleniuk. This meant there were fewer residential break-and-enters since more people were at home. Even data from Statistics Canada shows a similar trend across the country.
“Our trends there, although 90 per cent there looks a little shocking … we are in line (with other jurisdictions), so I don’t think that should jump out or give it anymore respect than the next item,” he added.
Even with that qualifier, the police service is not happy with that increase and strives to achieve zero property-related offences, said Bourassa, adding that residents should be vigilant and watch their possessions.
Other year-to-date data for this year and last year show:
- Impaired driving: 82 / 60
- Failing to comply with court orders: 509 / 520
- Pandemic responses: 80 / 83
- MVAs over $1,000: 131 / 150
- Provincial liquor infractions: 116 / 96
- Summary offence tickets: 1,227 / 883
- Cocaine: 4 / 4
- Cannabis: 6 / 4
- Methamphetamine: 18 / 5
- Other drugs: 14 / 14
- Calls for service: 10,535 / 10,396
The next Board of Police Commissioners meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 19.
