Accidents Down, Crime Numbers Mixed

The most recent statistics for city and county auto accidents, traffic violations and general crime showed mixed results for 1998.

While the total number of auto accidents dropped 2 percent from 1997, the number of accidents resulting in injury fell 22 percent.

Capt. Paul Ayers attributes the drop to the department’s recent emphasis on traffic safety.

“I think (the new figures) reflects an increased use of seat belts and drivers becoming more aware of their driving habits,” Ayers said.

The county recorded a dramatic increase in the number of people arrested for drunken driving, however. The county made 112 arrests in 1998, a 58 percent increase from 1997.

In general crime statistics, incidents of vehicle theft, robbery and assault were marginally higher than last year’s figures. A dramatic rise in domestic violence is attributed to the higher number of assaults.

Burglaries were down substantially in 1998. In the city, 454 burglaries were reported last year, compared to 595 in 1997.

As in 1997, the city and the county had no homicides to report in 1998.

The city responded to 23,022 calls for service last year, down slightly from 23,153 calls in 1997.