Milford Borough: policing by the numbers

MILFORD — A comparison of annual reports reveals 2009 complaints handled by Milford Borough Police (2,222 reported) were down 15% from 2008. “It’s been quiet,” said Chief Gary Williams. Many of the borough’s statistics are in single digit numbers, so small changes can rate big percentages, but some are representative. Reportable traffic accidents (13) were down 54%, DUIs (12) were down 33%, criminal mischief complaints (14) were down 50%, business and home alarm complaints were both down by a third or more. Last year versus 2008, borough police wrote more citations (365 versus 309) for fewer ($17,138 versus $20,572.50) fine dollars. However, the numbers were not all in the negative. Disturbance complaints (35) rose 59%, thefts (42) rose 14% and harassment (16) was up 33%. For a table including a partial listing and comparison of 2008-09 complaint records, see page 20.