Robberies, assaults and total persons crimes dropped in 2012, according to a year-end police report.
Robberies decreased by 82 per cent from 11 to two. Assaults decreased by 15 per cent from 80 to 68. Total persons crimes decreased by 16 per cent. Theft of motor vehicles increased by 25 per cent from 20 to 25. Drug enforcement possession offences increased from 19 to 28.
ìViolent crimes are typically crimes of opportunity,î said Cpl. Jeff Hildebrandt of the Innisfail RCMP detachment. ìObviously circumstances have changed in the community to limit that opportunity.
ìWe have tried to increase our presence.î
Lower staffing throughout the year could have also contributed to lower figures, he said.
