The Uniform Crime Reporting Program of the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs released the 2006 preliminary annual crime statistics.

In 2006, statewide crime-reporting data indicates Washington experienced a 7.2 percent decrease in crime index offenses (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assaults, burglary, larceny theft, motor vehicle theft and arson) in comparison to 2005.

City of Federal Way crime-reporting data revealed a 14.8 percent decrease in index offenses compared to the previous year. (5,538 total crimes in 2006 vs. 6,499 total crimes in 2005)

Property crimes were reduced by 15.8 percent compared to 2005 whereas person crimes realized a 4.8 percent increase.

Property crimes showed a reduction in three categories: Burglary -5.9 percent (753 vs. 800), Theft/Larceny -14.7 percent (3,230 vs. 3,786) and Motor Vehicle Theft -23.8 percent (1,199 vs. 1,573). Person crime showed a -83.3 percent decrease (1 vs. 6) reduction in Homicide.

The most significant crimes yielding in significant overall crime reduction in 2006 is attributed to Auto Thefts and Theft/Larceny.

In an effort to reduce auto thefts, a significant resource was allocated such as special emphasis patrol, use of crime analysis, use of BAIT vehicle, working collaboratively with other regional agencies, identification and apprehension of top offenders and seeking exceptional sentences for those offenders.

"I would like to commend the men and women of the department for their commitment to service and their hard dedicated work to protect the citizens of our community. It will be crucial that community groups, businesses and government bodies continue to work in partnership to drive further improvements in community safety," said Chief Brian Wilson.

While there remains much to be done, the findings of the report is encouraging and the importance of proactively working with the citizens, building on a strong community-based approach to reducing crime. Since the inception of the Police Department in 1996, the city's population has steadily grown by 14 percent. Overall crime has decreased 12.5 percent when comparing the 1996 index crime data to 2006 numbers.

To view the complete 2006 Washington Associations of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs Preliminary Annual Crime Report visit www.waspc.org.