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Crime Levels On The Rise In Westmeath

Tuesday, 11 January 2022 06:46

When compared to figures from 2020, thefts from vehicles had the biggest increase of 45%.

Crime rates in Westmeath are on the rise, according to the latest data from An Garda Síochána.

However, drug activity is one area that's on the decline.

A report looking at crime rates in the county in 2021 was presented at the latest meeting of the Westmeath Joint Policing Committee.

Detection of crime was down in all areas bar thefts from and of vehicles - something Chief Superintendent Fergus Healy attributes to covid-19 and the disruption it's caused to policing.

When compared to figures from 2020, thefts from vehicles had the biggest increase of 45 per cent, with 107 incidents recorded last year.

Some of other crimes on the rise include non-aggravated burglaries, of which 187 occurred last year, and property crime, with 938 cases in 2021.

The chief super did commend the drugs unit for their work, with a number of big drugs busts made in the last year.

Crime rates relating to drugs dropped in both Mullingar and Athlone in 2021, with a total of 65 people charged with sale and supply.

256 gardaí are currently serving the 13 stations around Westmeath, along with 10 reserve members and 38 garda staff.

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