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Crime rate at Scott fell in '07

  • Published
  • By Scott Beckman
  • 375th Security Forces Squadron
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  As 2007 comes to an end, most crimes across Scott Air Force Base were down from the previous year.

For the year, only 14 assaults were reported, 10 less than what was reported in 2006.

In 2006, there were four attempted suicides on base. In 2007, there were two attempted suicides. Unfortunately, Joint Total Force Scott did loose one member of its Air Force family to suicide in 2007.

Larceny was down substantially in 2007, with 103 reported cases last year and only 77 this year. Of the incidents, 17 cases in 2006 were juveniles whereas only 12 were juveniles in 2007.

Domestic disturbances and crimes against persons also declined in 2007. Last year, there were 17 reported cases as compared to the seven from this year.

Crimes against property totaled 56 separate incidents last year compared to 16 this year.

Overall, crime statistics show a decline in criminal activity. This can be attributed to situational awareness and active participation of commanders, supervisors and/or peers at all levels. The 375th Security Forces Squadron's visual presence and the use of an aggressive augmentee program ensured the continuous safety of the tens of thousands who live, work and visit Scott every day.

While there was a significant decrease in many crimes this year Scott unfortunately saw a crime increase in two major areas in 2007.

In 2006, there were 19 reported cases of Driving Under the Influence compared to 25 reported cases in 2007. These were not all on Scott; 15 of these DUI's were servicemembers that were detained by civilian police departments in three separate states.

In 2006, there were 17 separate incidents for Use/Possession of a Controlled Substance. In 2007 there were 19 reported cases.

All of this information is tracked by the 375th SFS and verified via the Security Forces Management Information System. These are not all of the crimes that were reported this past year, only those most severe and encompass both military and civilian personnel residing on/or working here.

It is virtually impossible to stop all crime both on and off base. With the continued help from all personnel, there will be a continued decline in crime. Scott has proactive programs such as the Wingman Program and the Armed Forces Against Drunk Driving available to assist servicemembers and civilians in not making poor decisions when consuming alcohol. Contact unit first sergeants for details on these programs. Additionally, Family Advocacy has an aggressive program that helps family members during times of need and can be reached at 256-7203. Last but not least, Pamela Dorsey heads the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator program and she can be contacted at 256-SARC (256-7272) for assistance in sexual assault related crimes. 

When working together, everyone on Scott can help put a stop to crime.