St Mary police aim for further reduction in crime for 2025
Published:Friday | January 3, 2025 | 12:09 AMGareth Davis Sr/Gleaner Writer
Acting Superintendent Anthony Wallace, commanding officer for the St Mary police, has outlined that the division is pushing to achieve further reductions in crime for 2025, following a successful 2024.
Wallace expressed satisfaction with the division’s progress, particularly in the latter half of 2024, which saw significant reductions in major crimes.
He credited the success to new crime-fighting strategies, along with strong relationships, ongoing interaction, and collaboration with the community.
“Together, we have achieved a 28 per cent reduction in murders and maintained a clear-up rate for major crimes exceeding 60 per cent. These accomplishments are not just statistics. They represent lives saved, families kept whole, and communities growing stronger. These successes are the result of a deliberate and strategic approach,” he remarked.
Target crime hotspots
Police statistics up to December 28, 2024, show that St Mary had recorded 26 murders for the year, down from a corresponding 37 over the same period in 2023. There were also three fewer shootings over the period in 2024, with 25 incidents recorded. While rape was also down by 70.4 per cent year on year, robberies climbed by 18.2 per cent, and break-ins surged by 92.3 per cent.
“We have worked tirelessly to deploy officers where they are needed most, ensuring a proactive presence in areas of concern. Additionally, our efforts to secure the borders of our parish have been instrumental in curbing criminal activities. As we look ahead, we are committed to building on this solid foundation,” the commander said.
Wallace emphasised that the division would continue to target crime hotspots and implement preventive measures to address criminal activity before it takes root.
The police are also monitoring the potential influx of criminals into St Mary, urging residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious individuals through public-education campaigns.
Wallace stressed that the division’s success was not solely the result of police efforts but was shared with community partners and stakeholders. He expressed anticipation in further strengthening collaborations with community leaders, business owners, and residents to ensure that St Mary remains a peaceful parish where people can live, work, raise families, and conduct business.