‘Booze to blame for violent crimes’

ALCOHOL may be to blame for an increase in non-domestic violence in the Ballymoney borough, a police chief has claimed.

Between April 2011 and December there were 89 reports of such incidents to local police.

This was an increase of seven compared to the same period last year.

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Commenting on the figures PSNI Area Commander Brenda Cairns, said:

“Research has shown that alcohol is a contributory factor in much of this type of crime.

Police have been involved with partner agencies in extensive media campaigns to educate the public about responsible drinking and behaviour; this has been supplemented locally by delivery of a similar message through presentations to various groups in the community and through the local Press.

“In September a guest speaker from Northern Health and Social Services Trust addressed Ballymoney Community Forum on the issue of alcohol abuse and the group discussed the impact on crime levels, particularly violent crime.

“Incidents of violent crime are robustly investigated and when suspects are identified robust bail conditions including alcohol restrictions are applied pending the outcome of court proceedings.”

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