Police report alarming rise in burglaries and traffic accidents

In a recent government meeting, officials reported a concerning rise in structural burglaries, which were 20% above the five-year average for July. Of the burglaries, six were non-residential and seven residential, with a notable concentration in Manhattan. In contrast, vehicle burglaries saw a 12% decrease compared to the five-year average, although two firearms were stolen from vehicles during the month.

Motor vehicle thefts surged dramatically, increasing by 57%, with six vehicles recovered in good condition. The department noted that the majority of these thefts were not related to known individuals, dispelling concerns about misunderstandings among parties involved.

Traffic incidents also raised alarms, with overall traffic accidents reported at 33% above the five-year average for July. The number of DUIs was 13% higher than the average, prompting officials to link the uptick to increased activity as students return to town and ongoing construction. Preventable traffic accidents were similarly elevated, with a 28% increase.

To address these issues, law enforcement plans to implement data-driven strategies, including targeted educational campaigns in areas with high accident rates. As the school year approaches, officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining safety, particularly in the Aggieville area, where they will deploy both uniformed and plainclothes officers to enhance security.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted challenges within the local jail system, particularly concerning the rising female inmate population. With housing capacity nearing its limit, officials are contracting with other facilities to manage the overflow, incurring costs of approximately $3,500 per month for housing female inmates elsewhere. The situation is compounded by the fact that 14 individuals have been incarcerated for over a year, raising concerns about long-term solutions for inmate management.