Wednesday, 3 April 2002

Media Release

FAIRFIELD: NON-VIOLENT CRIMES DOWN, VIOLENT CRIMES UP

The 2001 recorded crime statistics for the Fairfield-Liverpool area shows statistically significant fall in non-violent crimes but increase in violent crimes according to UNITY Fairfield Councillor Thang Ngo.

The statistics were released today by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.

Cr Thang Ngo said residents should be happy about the fall in house break-ins and vehicle thefts.

But of concern is the rise in recorded incidents of violent crimes. Murder, assaults, robbery with and without a weapon have all increased compared to last year said Cr Ngo.

For example, robbery with a firearm increased from 70 in 2000 to 114 in 2001. That’s a rate of 20.6 per 100,000 residents in 2000 compared to 32.8 per 100,000 in 2001.

"One way to look at these figures is that homes and cars in Fairfield are more secure, but resident’s personal safety are less secure compared to last year".

While the Bureau concludes the increase in violent crimes are not statistically significant, Cr Ngo warns the across the board increase in almost all violent crime indicators should be taken seriously by police.

"It’s fantastic that our property is less likely to be stolen in Fairfield, but residents should also feel safe from violent attacks too" said Cr Ngo.

Cr Ngo called on insurance companies to take note of the latest drop in house break-ins and vehicle thefts and reduce premiums for local residents.

"Though I wouldn’t be encouraging anyone to hold their breath on that issue" he concluded.