SA Police stop would-be thieves in their tracks

Serious Criminal Trespass offences against homeowners has dropped significantly after SA Police completed a targeted operation to shutdown offenders.

The 19% drop was revealed today in SA Police’s latest crime statistics and highlights a sharp decrease in offences against residences in the rolling year to 31 July 2020.

Minister for Police, Vincent Tarzia, said the encouraging figures are a testament to SAPOL’s ability to protect homes and businesses from theft.

“SAPOL’s Operation Hurricane 2 – which launched in March and ended recently ­­– has achieved great results and proves the efforts of determined officers pays off for the community, keeping people safe in their own homes,” he said.

“In total Serious Criminal Trespass offences are down 9% and that is a remarkable achievement.”

Serious Criminal Trespass offences against residence, non-residence and unlawful entry are included in the 9% dip.

“The numbers reflect positively on SAPOL and its ability to perform at a high and efficient standard. Officers continue to take a strong stance against crime through targeted operations which are clearly working,” Minister Tarzia said.

Today’s statistics also show a significant decrease (-51%) in common assault. Other offences against the Person fell by 22%, while Fraud, Deception and Related Offences dropped by 10%.

It is noted that an increase was seen in the Serious Assault Resulting in Injury and Serious Assault not Resulting in Injury categories. This reflects a change in the way those offences are recorded rather than a rise in the number of reported incidents.

“Petrol drive-offs are still a problem but overall Other Theft decreased by 1%. Overall, the long-term crime trend for this financial year is 3% lower than 10 years ago.

“We are lucky to have such dedicated men and women on the frontline. The Marshall Liberal Government thanks them for their efforts, especially in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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