Local crime up, burglaries down

Monday, February 4, 2013

McCOOK, Nebraska -- The total number of McCook crimes reportable to state and federal governments, which does not include city ordinance or traffic violations, rose three percent in 2012 while local burglaries decreased 13 percent. According to crime and arrest statistics through November 2012, provided by the McCook Police Department, the total number of crimes during the same time period increased from 516 in 2011, to 530 in 2012.

Arrests during the same time period increase by 19 percent.

The total property crime rate per 1,000 in McCook increased slightly to 28.8 percent, with the state average for the same time period at 26.7 percent.

Chief of Police Isaac Brown told the Gazette that while McCook faired well in the area of violent crime, he was not pleased with being above the state average in regards to property crime.

"The 28.8 percent is unacceptable and the police department will continue to work to reduce the rate through arrest of suspects and proactive efforts to limit opportunities for criminals," said Brown.

The violent crime rate in McCook is 1.2 percent per 1,000, which Brown said is half of the Nebraska state average of 2.4 percent.

Brown said the national crime rate also increased in 2012 and one report he read indicated the nation's violent crime rate increased one percent.

"McCook remains a very safe, secure, community and a wonderful place to live and raise a family," said Brown.

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