DRUG OFFENCES DOWN FOR EDSON IN 2005

The 2005 crime statistics for Edson have been compiled with a few
surprising numbers.

After a spike in drug activity in 2004, total offences were down to
58 from 104 leaving the RCMP with a feeling of cautious optimism.
"We're in a bit of a transition right now," Cpl. Glenn Henry said.

"We had some high profile people that we took out."

Cpl. Henry said his detachment has been focused on keeping dealers
off the streets and right now there has been a vacuum left that they
will have to ensure is not filled.

But not all numbers from the annual report were encouraging-crimes
against persons jumped by 43 incidents.

RCMP said any number of factors can lead to a rise in this type of
crime but Henry was hoping that the number reflects public awareness
and that more people were reporting assaults to police, whereas
before they may have been silent.

"There's definitely more people reporting," he said.

The RCMP's zero-tolerance policy for domestic assault means people
can be confident that if they report an incident and there is
sufficient evidence, charges will be laid.

One other significant drop is the number of motor vehicle thefts,
which is down to 75 from 129 in 2004.

Henry said the message that the RCMP has been trying to get out about
keeping valuables out of sight and locking vehicle doors, seemed to
be getting through.

"I think we have to change our perception. Even in a small town we
have to protect ourselves," he said.

Henry added that some people were still being careless and there are
plenty of people looking to capitalize on the less vigilant in the community.

"Those stats could easily go up again," Henry said.