Naperville sees rise in major crimes

Major crimes in Naperville rose last year in several categories, including burglary, robbery and aggravated assault, according to a preliminary report released by the FBI.

But while some of the percentage increases may seem high, the actual number of incidents is still relatively low, officials said.

"Relative to other jurisdictions also mentioned in the report, we've experienced some increases on this but I don't think they're to the point we don't feel we're providing a very safe community here," Naperville police Cmdr. Mike Anders said.

Property crimes as a whole increased by 99 incidents in 2008, a 4 percent jump to 2,431 up from 2,332.

Of those crimes, burglaries totaled 322, up from 250 the previous year representing a 29 percent increase. Larceny/theft rose by 1 percent with 2,037 compared to the previous 2,009. Motor vehicle theft was the only category to see a decline, making a 1 percent drop to 72, down from 73.

Without having more data, Anders did not want to speculate as to whether problems with the economy caused some of the increases, but acknowledged it has affected people in different ways.

"Some desperate people are going to do desperate things but nevertheless it doesn't curb our mission to provide a safe community," he said.

He encourages residents to be more diligent about locking their cars and not leaving valuables, including GPS docking equipment, where they are visible.

In terms of violent crime, the number of murders held steady at two. Robberies were up 35 percent, although the actual number of incidents only increased by six. There were 23 robberies in 2008 and 17 the previous year. Aggravated assaults rose to 92 from 76, representing a 21 percent jump.

In other crime categories, arson held steady at 10.

In 2007, the police department implemented a new tactical team of plain clothes officers to increase patrols and be more proactive.

While the department recently lost several officers due to budget cuts, most have been from the crime prevention unit and Anders said emergency response is still a priority.

Naperville crime statistics The FBI recently released a preliminary report showing crime statistics for 2008 and 2007 in Naperville. The city's 2008 population was about 144,205. Crime 2008 2007 Pct. change Murder 2 2 0 Robbery 23 17 +35 Aggravated assault 92 76 +21 Burglary 322 250 +29 Larceny-theft 2,037 2,009 +1 Motor vehicle theft 72 73 -1 Arson 10 10 0 Source: FBI