Arrest numbers boosted in 2015

WARWICK is just one area to reap the benefits of a record number of arrests made across Queensland in 2015 thanks to Crime Stoppers.

Phone calls and online reports made to the community crime prevention program resulted in 27 arrests and 69 charges by Warwick police, contributing to the record-breaking results.

Crime Stoppers Queensland CEO Trevor O'Hara said the number of arrests were up 7.5% from those achieved in 2015.

"Reports made to Crime Stoppers Queensland in 2015 led to 2622 arrests and 9452 charges being placed across the state, which is a significant increase," Mr O'Hara said.

Warwick police crime prevention office Wendy Brooks said Crime Stoppers was an important partner for the police in preventing theft in the community.

"We support them at a local level and are able to provide them with statistics per month of how many offences were reported through the Crime Stoppers number," Senior Constable Brooks said.

"They are a mostly volunteer-run organisation and are absolutely providing a valuable service and their main job is to promote that number.

"Because the public are exposed to things that police aren't exposed to, it might be neighbour, friend or relative you have information on and you're concerned for their welfare or someone else's, but their activity might not be an immediate offence.

"If people come to police we're going to ask for all the details, but Crime Stoppers only gets the essential information but allows the reporter to remain confidential."

Warwick Crime Stoppers volunteer Jo McNally said the group was eager for more volunteers to help instill vigilance in the community.

"We live in a fairly safe area but there are always opportunistic people who will take advantage," Cr McNally said.

"We go to events like Apple and Grape and talk to people about what Crime Stoppers does and how to report suspicious activity while remaining anonymous so you don't end up in court as a witness.

"What we do is make people aware they need to be vigilant around homes, work places and cars, and make sure they don't make themself a target, by making sure they don't leave valuables in sight or if they're away someone is doing the mowing and collecting your mail so your home isn't targetted."

The Warwick Crime Stoppers branch will host a golf day fundraiser on Wednesday, March 16.

To play or sponsor a game, phone Warwick Golf Club on 46615905.



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