The Tribune

BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT – Ahead of the release of the crime statistics for 2013, Grand Bahama’s police chief is reporting a significant decrease in all major crimes in the northern district for the year.

While bringing remarks at the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at police headquarters on Thursday, Assistant Commissioner of Police Emrick Seymour reported a “tremendous” drop in crime, in some areas by as much 60 per cent.

“This year has been a very good year for us in Grand Bahama, Abaco and Bimini in that we would have seen – and of course we will be releasing soon the crime stats – a significant and tremendous decrease in all areas of major crime; we have seen decreases from 40 to 60 per cent,” he said.

Mr Seymour commended the 700 officers, including the Police Reserves, stationed in the northern district.

He said that the police are committed to ensuring that communities are safe for both residents and visitors.

ACP Seymour also thanked the public for their support in the fight against crime.

He stressed that residents will begin to see increased police visibility on the streets throughout the Christmas season.

Minister for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville commended the police on the “excellent job” they are doing in Grand Bahama, not only in terms of law enforcement, but also in their community outreach programmes.

While 2013 was a challenging year for Grand Bahama, Dr Darville assured the island’s residents that 2014 will be a much better one.

“Grand Bahama, let me assure you that in 2014 we will begin to move swiftly to bring excessive relief to the island through collaborative efforts of our private sector partners and my colleagues in Nassau,” he said. “I want to encourage you and let you know that the future does look bright.”