Hamilton Police say most crime is down due to COVID-19. Here are the stats

Hamilton | Ontario | COVID | Latest News |

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Published May 1, 2020 at 1:54 pm

Hamilton Police say that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a decrease in the number of reported crimes in the city.

Hamilton Police say that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a decrease in the number of reported crimes in the city.

In a press release issued Friday, police say they have seen shifts in crime trends as a result of the recent changes to daily life caused by COVID-19.

Overall, the release says, reported crime in Hamilton has decreased approximately 12.5 per cent in Hamilton since the State of Emergency was declared on March 17, 2020.

The categories of crime that have decreased over this time period include:

There have been some criminal behaviours police have noted a slight increase in. Since March 17, Hamilton police have seen an increase in the following:

The number of people caught speeding on Hamilton roads is up, likely because traffic is much lighter due to social distancing, police say.

“There is still an expectation that road users will act responsibly and within the law,” the release says.

In response to this trend, Hamilton Police say starting Monday (May 4), they will be launching a road safety campaign to crack down on speeding and stunt driving.

Hamilton Police say they have also increased patrols around closed businesses, as well as engaged with local BIAs and the Chamber of Commerce to offer additional Crime Prevention support, in response to the massive spike in commercial break and enters.

They offer tips for business owners to protect their property during the closures here.

Hamilton Police say they have received 1089 calls related to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA). The calls have been related to non-essential businesses operating, gatherings of over five people and using prohibited amenities.

To date, police say there have been 34 tickets issued under the EMCPA.

Access to Hamilton Police facilities remains restricted to the public. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. In a non-emergency, call 905-546-4925 or report online at www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca.

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