There’s been a 30% rise in the number of people caught with drugs with the intent to supply this year.
Figures released by the Gardaí at today’s Joint Policing Committee show that there have been 69 such detections so far in 2019, while simple possession offences
In general, though, crime across the board in this county is on a downward trend.
Today‘s Joint Policing Committee meeting is underway at the Burren College of Art, marking new Chief Superintendent Seán Colleran’s first time to lead a meeting of the committee.
Overall, the figures released by Gardaí are showing a welcome decrease in the number of crimes detected in Clare.
But drugs offences are increasing, much in line with the national trend.
Between January and September of this year, Gardaí in Clare recorded 69 offences where individuals were found in possession of drugs with the intent to sell or supply.
That marks a 30% rise on the same period last year; while there was also a 9% increase in simple possession charges.
In terms of property crimes, thefts from vehicles have dropped by 22%, thefts from shops are down just 1% while other thefts have dropped by 12%.
The offences of speeding and driving without insurances have dropped by 14 and 34% respectively, though driving under the influence detection are up by 20%.
A total of 10 rapes have been recorded in Clare so far in 2019, which is up from four in the same period last year, marking a 150% rise.
Gardaí say a significant number of these are historic offences, with increased public faith in the justice system touted as the reason why people are coming forward.
