Crime Down In Southampton Town

Crime is down in Southampton Town statistically, and improved relations between the police and residents may be the reason why, Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman stated on September 14. The numbers show a 20 percent drop in crime reports.

The decrease in reports is across the board. Grand larceny dropped from 173 incidents at this time last year to 152 this year. Reported assaults are down from 21 in 2017 to 11 this year, with burglaries dropping from 49 to 30, robberies from seven to four, and sex crimes from eight to two.

“This significant drop in the number of major crimes is a credit to the community policing and intelligence-led policing strategies adopted by Police Chief Steve Skrynecki,” said Schneiderman.

“It is about building trust and cooperation, working together to improve quality of life conditions,” Chief Skrynecki said in the release. The chief pointed to a recent barbecue and youth event at Ludlam Park in Flanders as an example. “It gave our officers a chance to mingle and connect on a one-on-one level with community youth and adults.”

The department is embarking on a new initiative. With funding support from the Organización Latino-Americana of the East End, Spanish to English translation devices are being installed in all patrol cars. “The first step to serving a community is to establish clear communication. Breaking down language barriers is essential to maximize public safety,” Chief Skrynecki said.

t.e@indyeastend.com