The number of sex crimes reported to the Garda increased for the sixth year in succession last year, surpassing what was already a record high, new unpublished figures show. There was a 3 per cent increase in the total number of sexual offences reported to the force last year, up from 3,179 offences in 2018. It means a new record for sex crimes reported annually has now been reached for four years consecutively. However, many senior officers also believe it is very likely the number of sex crimes being committed in the Republic has increased. Public order offences were up 4 per cent last year driven by a 6 per cent increase in drunkenness.

Source: The Irish Times February 03, 2020 02:15 UTC