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INUVIK
While Inuvik residents were talking about high crime rates during the month of October, so far this year crime rates have been lower than during the same period in 2011.

"A lot of our stats are lower than years past," said RCMP Staff Sgt. Jerry McKenna. "It could be a lot of different factors but a number of areas show significantly less numbers."

The Inuvik RCMP detachment responded to 326 calls in October. A year earlier there were 402 that month.

While there was a spike in break and enters, both in private homes and businesses, there were fewer thefts than in 2011.

The citizen patrol group, known as ICOPS, which started as a response to some of the break-ins and vandalism has been a help, said McKenna.

"We did respond to their calls and I believe the group is looking into registering as a non-profit in the new year," he said.

The Inuvik RCMP detachment is trying to promote more of a connection with the community. The Mounties have started to include foot patrols and were involved with events surrounding National Addictions Awareness Week, said McKenna.

"Addiction is a big issue. A lot of our calls are related to disturbances involving alcohol," he said.

Through recent presentations at East 3, RCMP officers are working with youth to raise awareness about drugs and alcohol.

"The prevention is important and by talking to students and youth in the community it gets the word out," said McKenna.

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