BALDIVIS MLA Reece Whitby has welcomed a seven percent fall in the Baldivis crime rate.
The number of reported crimes in Baldivis has gone down from 2,145 offences in 2016-17 to 1,997 offences in 2017-18.
The number of home burglaries fell significantly, from 261 to 140.
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READ NOW“We can never be complacent about crime and we always need to do more, but the latest crime stats show a positive overall trend,” Mr Whitby said.
“I am happy to see a significant reduction in the number of house break-ins and burglaries.
“Of course, if you’re one of the victims, you have every right to be angry, but the trend is lower.
“Sexual offences and stealing offences are also markedly lower.
“However, the number of some crimes is relatively unchanged and unfortunately other crimes, particularly drug offences and domestic violence are up.”
Mr Whitby said there was evidence to suggest victims of domestic violence were now more likely to report the crime, which could contribute to the perceived increase.
“Other factors like the state of the economy and employment may also influence the crime rate,” he said.
“A new policing system has been introduced and police districts have been changed, aimed at improving police response and cutting the crime rate further.
“Hopefully the positive downward trend continues.”