Data shows drop in Saratoga Springs crime over past decade

NewsChannel 13 has been reporting the concerns of fights and violence breaking out at one intersection in downtown Saratoga Springs, particularly a fight outside Gaffney’s Bar & Restaurant.

Now we got a look at the breakdown of crime in the Spa City.

The new numbers just out show in 2021, the reported number of crimes was just slightly higher than the year before.

There were 531 reported crimes in 2021, up from 510 in 2020.

However, a decade ago, crime was actually higher in Saratoga Springs, with 666 reported crimes in 2012. It was even higher in 2014, with 678 reports of crime. For 2021, July was the busiest month for the police department.

The majority of calls for the entire year: larceny (321) and assault (356), the majority of arrests: driving under the influence (140). After that were assault (90), possession of a controlled substance (63), then disorderly conduct (51), criminal mischief (50) and larceny (40).

The police department started 2021 with some vacancies: down one sergeant, one investigator and three patrol officers from the year before.

Just this week, the decision was made to eliminate the position of assistant police chief, directing that funding instead to a patrol sergeant and officer.

Gaffney’s released the following statement to NewsChannel 13:

"The suggestions made by Commissioner Montagnino to enhance Caroline Street are positive from our vantage point and we support these efforts in order to keep the corridor an entertainment destination. For six years, we’ve been proud of our tireless work at Gaffney’s – reflective in each event we’ve hosted, the thousands of customers who come in each week, our incredible staff, and our results. From the moment we took over Gaffney’s, our goal and vision has always been to create a safe and entertaining atmosphere for our patrons and artists first and foremost.

"We have always been locked in to this vision since Day 1 – from hiring the best security and maintaining a responsible serving staff. Again, we appreciate the work and diligence of Commissioner Montagnino, city officials, and the police department in partnering with not just our establishment, but everyone who has a vested interest in keeping Caroline Street safe."