Hay River (Sep 22/03) - The crime rate is rising in Hay River, but a lot of people appear ready to do something about it.

About 90 people showed up at a public meeting, Sept. 15, to brainstorm on how they can fight crime.

Ideas ranged from locking doors, to giving more information to the RCMP, to being aware what is going on in neighbourhoods, to curfews for young people.

The meeting also discussed RCMP responsiveness and coverage in the community.

For example, Glen Pangborn proposed people form community watches to drive around during late-night hours when no RCMP officers are on duty.

"I'm not suggesting we get involved in vigilantism," he said, explaining information gathered could be passed on to the police.

RCMP Sgt. Don Fisher said he would support the idea, if the community wants it.

Increasing crime is common with a prosperous economy.

"The reality is when you see money, you see the vices," Fisher said. The sergeant said the police need information and community involvement to deal with crime, such as the use of crack cocaine.

"If we close our curtains and tolerate it, we will see more of it," Fisher said.

There are basic things people can do to protect themselves and their property, he added, listing locking doors and securing property.

"I like to leave my house unlocked or like to think I can, but I don't anymore," Fisher said.

There are eight Mounties in the Hay River detachment, which also covers the Hay River Reserve and Enterprise.

Fisher brought some stats to the meeting to show rising numbers of break and enters, drug offences and violent crimes.

For example, Criminal Code violations totalled 756 between January and August of this year, compared to 580 in the same period last year -- almost a 40 per cent increase.

In the same time period, the number of alcohol-related incidents rose to 346 from 244. Meanwhile, the prisoner count in detachment cells for the year stood at 579 up to Sept. 14. That number was not reached until Oct. 22 last year.

Probation officer Gary Beatty pointed out most of the crime is not committed by youth, even though many people at the meeting suggested programs for young people.

"The majority of people who get into trouble are actually adults," Beatty said.

The public gathering was technically a special meeting of Hay River Town Council. Councillors voted to establish a committee to look into the crime problem and come up with ideas for future meetings. The committee will be led by Coun. Robert Bouchard.

"This is the greatest community to live in bar none, and we have to keep it that way," said Mayor Duncan McNeill. There appeared to be general satisfaction with the meeting as a good start.

"I think this is a huge step in getting everyone together and dealing with the problems," said Kevin Wallington, the co-ordinator of the Hay River Youth Centre.