ENFORCING LAW

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23718, 26 July 1940, Page 4

ENFORCING LAW

POLICE ACTIVITIES CONDUCT OF DANCES SUCCESS OF LEGISLATION it . T~"" >' fBY TELEGRAPH SPECIAL REPORTER] WELLINGTON, Thursday An increase of 2070 in the number of offences reported to the police is recorded- in the annual report on the New Zealand Police Force, which has been presented to the House of Representatives. There were 46,378 offences reported during the year ended December 31, 1939, compared with 44,308 the previous year. The major increase occurred in petty theft. The main decreases were in failing to maintain wife or children, false statements and declarations, and reckless or negligent driving. Fines totalled £45,493, arising from 24,596 convictions. The Consolidated Fund received £16,498, the Main Highways Revenue Account £7833, and local authorities, from fines for by-law offences, £265. Question of Women Police "It is hoped to introduce women police in the very near future," remarks the report, which describes activities arising out of the war, and mentions that a great number of the department's men have enlisted for service. "The legislation passed last session in connection with liquor at dance halls has been a pronounced success," states the report. "Numerous prosecutions for this class of offence have been taken throughout the Dominion, and the Courts, by the imposition of salutary penalties, have been very helpful in country districts. The legislation has been a blessing. There is already a very marked improvement in the conduct of all dances." Auckland District Needs The Auckland report, submitted by Superintendent J. Cunimings, recommends an increase of 20 constables for the central station and three sergeants, one for Mount Albert, one for Mount Eden and one for Papakura. Mr. Cummings says the increase would enable all tho necessary relieving duty to bo carried out and generally enable all requirements to be met adequately and efficiently. The report adds that the work performed for other departments has increased 50 per cent during the year.