Robberies fueled by the economic crisis

Crime Chief Mark Shields believes the current economic crisis has contributed to the increase in break-ins and robberies.



There were 284 break-ins and 227 robberies last month.



This compares with 119 break-ins and 157 robberies in January 2008.



There was also a notable increase the cases of larceny, which jumped from seven in January last year to 39 last month.



Deputy Commissioner Shields said the recession in the United States and other countries is one of the main factors contributing to the increase in property crimes.



He said the police’s new system of recording has also contributed to an increase in the reporting of crimes.