Reported crime fell by more than 10% in Jersey in 2003

The figures have been released in the force's annual report for 2003.

It showed reported crime fell by more than 10%, when compared to the three-year average.

But the detection rate remained only 37% of reported crime.

The report also showed the overall number of crimes against people was down, but the number of sexual offences committed rose.

If lots of people full of drink are getting tipped onto the streets at the same time when there is insufficient transport to get them home, what do you think is going to happen? Graham Power, Police Chief

It showed the number of assaults on police officers fell by more than 10%.

Officers believe this reduction could be because of the introduction of CS spray to the island.

One of the conclusions of the report is fewer people feel safe in town, despite a fall in the number of violent crimes committed in the island.

Only a third of islanders feel safe when they are walking about in town.

Public disturbances

Police Chief Graham Power believes better public transport and flexible licensing hours would help reduce people's fears of crime in Jersey.

He said policing St Helier would be easier if there was more public transport to take islanders home after the pubs and clubs had closed.

The annual report showed the number of serious assaults had fallen but there were more public disturbances in town.

Chief Officer Power said: "If lots of people full of drink are getting tipped onto the streets at the same time when there is insufficient transport to get them home, what do you think is going to happen?

"Many of the incidents are designed in by the transport system and we are very keen to talk about that."