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First quarter crime stats down in the Lower Similkameen

The first quarter police report from the Keremeos detachment of the RCMP is in - and crime statistics in the Lower Similkameen are down  when compared to last year.

In the first quarter of this year, Keremeos RCMP responded to 227 calls for service compared with 264 in 2010, a drop of 14  per cent.

Disturbance complaints are up most of all over last year, with assaults and residential break ins also up slightly. Vehicle crime, break and enters and property damage reports all showed downward trendsin the first quarter of 2011.

The Keremeos detachment also investigated six drug offenses, one of which was related to cocaine trafficking, one other related to cannabis trafficking and  production. On March 31, detachment members conducted a search warrant on a residence in the 1300 block of Highway 3A on March 31 where they located 144 marijauna plants, 3.48 pounds of marijuana bud, eight pounds of dried cannibis plants and one rifle. Charges are currently pending.

One driver was charged with impaired driving during the first three months of 2011. One more was given a 90 day immediate roadside suspension and one other driver was given a 72 hour suspension under the new impaired driving legislation introduced in September of last year.

Keremeos continues to run an active Citizens on Patrol program which conducts regular patrols of the Lower Similkameen.

There are currently no individuals in Keremeos matching the criteria for chronic nuisance offender.

The Keremeos RCMP uses the DARE program as a means of connecting with local youth, and the detachment continues to involve itself with the Education on Substance Abuse Committee,sponsored by the village.There is also a Youth Officer Program in place for the 2010 - 11 school year.

Crime Stoppers received one tip relating to events in Keremeos and area during the quarter.