Statistics reported to the State Bureau of Investigation show the majority of crime was down in Halifax County in 2015.
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Sheriff Wes Tripp reported murder, rape, robbery, burglary, and larceny was down. Aggravated assault and motor vehicle thefts were up.
Reports of motor vehicle theft was up by one over the previous year, Tripp said.
Aggravated assault ranges from pointing a gun at someone to domestic violence and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious bodily injury.
Total reportable offenses were down, he said.
Tripp said he attributed the decreases to visibility of deputies throughout the county. “It has been my mission to increase the number of deputies patrolling which enhances visibility. It’s the good work on the part of the deputies being diligent in their duties. Deputies have a major part in the reduction of crime.”
The crime statistics for 2016 will not be released until next year, the sheriff said. “I think we’re on the same course for 2016.”
Tripp said drug abuse plays a part in crime committed in the county. “Most of the violent crimes are drug-related and that includes murder, aggravated assault, larcenies and burglaries.”