(RAPF Release) – The Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) has today Wednesday 17th July 2019 released its crime statistics, comparing the second quarter or half yearly figures of 2019 with the same period in 2018. Overall the amount of actual crime reported has been reduced by 15% (from 412 to 352 crimes in the period), While those brought to justice has increased by 19%. The month of June saw a crime reduction below the seasonal norm. This can be attributed to increased police patrols and key arrest which led to a reduction in acquisitive crime.
Acquisitive crimes have seen a reduction in reported crimes by 26% for the same period in 2018 (down from 124-92 crimes in that period). Burglary remains a high priority crime with figures for 2019 already at year end 2018. However, despite this, the detection rate for burglary is far better in 2019. Though burglaries have increased, it is notable that the detection rate has increased by 10% bringing it to 37% which is above the targeted rate of 25%. This is commendable as burglary is one of those Acquisitive crimes that plague our community.
Figures for serious crimes shows that there was a decrease in serious crimes reported over the period. There was a notable reduction in robberies by 29% compared to same period in 2018 (down from 6 robberies to 2 robberies in 2019). The RAPF continues to make gun crimes a priority and as such has had several successes in seizures of firearms and ammunition over the period. The reporting of sexual offences continues to rise which in noteworthy and demonstrates a greater inclination of victims to report such offences. It is also a testimony to the department’s efforts with respect to public awareness and maintaining confidentiality with each report made.
With the establishment of the Police Standards Department, it is evident from the figures presented by the department that complaints against Police Officers are not taken lightly and that there is a fair and ethical process which the RAPF employs to address complaints. It also shows that members of the public hold officers to a high standard and would like to see those standards upheld.
The Commissioner of Police Mr. Paul Morrison takes this opportunity to convey thanks and appreciation to all the officers and staff of the RAPF for their commitment and hard work. Monitoring of Crime performance and having a very strong crime recording regime played a major role in the success achieved by the RAPF in this second quarter. Commissioner Morrison stated that crime reduction requires an overall team effort and also express thanks to the people of Anguilla for their continued support in the fight against crime. God bless the RAPF and God Bless Anguilla.
