TRAVERSE CITY -- New national crime statistics show a decrease in violent crimes, but that is not the case for Sault Ste. Marie, where reports were about 20% higher in 2009.
Monday morning, the FBI issues their annual Crime Statistics Report.
Sault Ste. Marie, with a population of 14,063 people, recorded 47 violent crimes last year. The most eye-opening statistic is their 19 forcible rape cases. In 2008, they only reported 5.
“People have to realize that the way crime is now, it’s not like 20 years ago, when people left their doors unlocked and didn’t have to worry,” said Sault Ste. Marie Detective Michael Whitney.
In contrast to Sault Ste Marie, Traverse City, with a population of 14,385 people, recorded 32 violent crimes and 8 forcible rape cases in 2009.
Former Traverse City Police Chief Ralph Soffredine says the economy could have something to do with the number difference between Traverse City and Sault Ste. Marie.
“Well I think one of the things you want to take into mind is the unemployment rate they have in Sault Ste. Marie right now. That could certainly have something to do with the assault of crimes,” Soffredine said.
Sault Ste. Marie Detectives say their boost in crime could be linked to the boost in prescription drug abuse in their area.
