Recorded crime statistics released today for the 2013 calendar year show that crime was up by 1.6 percent in the Central Police District.
A total of 28,006 offences were recorded for this year, compared to 27,575 offences last year.
Central District Police now records approximately 18,000 fewer offences than in 1996 when population estimates were first broken down to Police area level.
Superintendent Russell Gibson, Central District Commander says that while there has been a slight increase in recorded crime it has been consistent with past years.
"While I am disappointed with the increase when you put it into context and look at the bigger picture this is our second lowest crime rate since 1996. This fluctuation is not uncommon and we will be drilling deeper to see what we can do to address this."
Sexual assault has also seen an increase with 103 more offences reported last year.
"We know this offence is significantly under-reported to Police and it is likely that the increase in this area is down to increased reporting rather than increased offending. Increased trust and confidence in police may also be a factor with victims feeling more able to report to Police."
Theft ex car and public place assaults were at an all time low per head of population. Assault and other acts intended to cause injury were down 5.4 percent and Robbery, extortion, and related offences were down 7.3 percent.
"While the offence resolution rate for the District in 2013 dropped slightly we are working hard on getting this back up by focusing our prevention activities into areas that need further attention. Burglary offending is one of these areas and continues to be a major focus for us.
"We will continue to target burglary and work with communities to prevent this offending. We are doing this by effective targeting of known burglars and burglary hotspots, by being more visible in the community and by helping victims improve their security and lessen their chances of being a repeat victim," says Superintendent Gibson.
Note: On 1 July 2013, the Central Police District went from 6 areas to 3. The three Areas incorporate the Territorial Local Authorities of Taranaki, Whanganui, and Manawatu. Policing services in the District are managed by three Area Commanders.
District-wide media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.