Crime related to the drug ice is up in the Maitland area.
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The latest Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research quarterly report released on Wednesday showed there had been a 70 per cent increase in arrests related to the use of methamphetamines.
A number of other regional areas have dwarfed that increase with Coffs Harbour recording a 200 per cent increase in ice-related crime.
The report showed the incidence of a number of serious crimes in Maitland had decreased considerably, but ice-related crime stood out as having significantly increased.
Director of the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research Dr Don Weatherburn said the continued growth in arrests for the use and possession of amphetamines was a matter for concern across the state.
“The Hunter Valley has seen a 70 per cent increase in arrests and the use of methamphetamines, but that hasn’t played into property crime yet,” he said.
“But that increase is nothing to what other parts of the state have seen. Coffs’ has doubled and it is similar in a few other regional areas. It’s not as big a problem in Maitland as elsewhere.”
Central Hunter crime manager Detective Inspector John Zdrilic said his command had worked to target illicit drug supply in the area.
“I can’t speak for other commands, but we have actively and proactively targeted the supply of illicit drugs in this area,” he said.
“I suppose the major determining factor in any increase in illicit drugs is availability.
“By nature, ice is one that can be manufactured locally in Australia as opposed to something like heroin, which is manufactured internationally.”
Inspector Zdrilic said that while Maitland’s increase in ice-related crime was not as great as elsewhere, the issue was still a concern.
“Of course it is [an issue],” he said.
“They’re illicit drugs; we know the destroying effect they can have on people and families.
“I’d be concerned by one incident as much as 100, which is why we actively encourage members of the community to help us by providing information.
“Like targeting any crime, liaising with the community is integral.”