SEX crimes across the Strabane District rose by more than 11 percent over the last year, Strabane District Policing Partnership (DPP) was told last week.

The worrying statistic was revealed when the PSNI presented their annual report to the DPP during a meeting in Castlederg.

But whilst there was an increase in sexual offences, there was a notable drop in other areas.

The number of burglaries dropped by almost 15 percent, while fraud and forgeries were down by 27 percent.

During last Thursday's meeting in public, Area Commander Chief Inspector Phil Marks answered questions from Strabane DPP in relation to sexual assaults, alcohol related crime, anti-social behaviour, clearance rates and public confidence with policing in the district.

links

Chair of the local Partnership, councillor Thomas Kerrigan thanked police for cutting crime locally, adding "We realise that a high portion of these incidents can be linked to the night-time economy in our towns.

"We are confident that officers will continue to deploy increased patrols to deter criminal damage and restore public confidence.

reduction

"Strabane DPP welcomes the significant reductions in the number of burglaries and assaults. Officers must be congratulated for their continued efforts to address these problems and make the district a safer place for residents to live."

"We are concerned that there is an increase in the number of incidents of anti-social behaviour and sexual assaults.

"We urge police officers to continue working with other agencies as well as parents, schools, community groups and church groups to address these problems."

Vice-chair Arthur McGarrigle said: "Strabane DPP has been analysing local crime levels since 2001.

"Once again the total crime recorded in the Strabane District is lower than ever – with less than 1700 crimes recorded.

"We are keen for this message to go out to local residents in the hope that it will alleviate the fear of crime that is still very real to many people," added Mr McGarrigle.