Sanibel police release annual crime, call statistics report
On May 17, the Sanibel Police Department released its Crime and Call Statistics Report for 2022.
The SPD reported that it shows a 91% increase in the overall number of federal reportable crimes over the previous 2021 year. The increase is related to reported crimes following Hurricane Ian as 64% of the crimes occurred between Sept. 28 and the end of 2022.
The report shows a 610% increase in reported burglaries from nine in 2021 to 64 last year. Fifty-six or 88% of burglaries occurred between Sept. 28 and the end of 2022. Likewise, the report shows a 64% increase in thefts from 44 in 2021 to 72 last year. Thirty-five reported thefts, or 49%, occurred between Sept. 28 and the end of the year.
“While the number of federally reported crimes increased dramatically in 2022, primarily due to burglaries and thefts that took place in the months following Hurricane Ian, I am happy to report that residential and business properties have been secured and reports of theft have declined,” Police Chief William Dalton said. “Had it not been for the incidents reported post-Hurricane Ian, the number of reported burglaries and thefts would have been statistically similar to 2021.”
The SPD reported that other data in the report shows a significant reduction in assaults from 20 in 2021 to three last year — an 85% decrease — and vehicle thefts went from two in 2021 to three in 2022.
The total non-federally reportable crimes, which includes trespass, drug violations, DUI, criminal traffic violations, criminal mischief and harassment, decreased from 910 in 2021 to 898 last year, which is a 1% decrease.
“Despite the reported increase, Sanibel remains a safe community, and the Sanibel Police Department is committed to maintaining a high level of service to residents and business owners,” Dalton said.
To view the full report, click on SPD 2022 CRIME CALL STATISTICS.