Is alcohol to blame for the increase in crime in certain parts of NSW?

According to quarterly crime figures released by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research statistics, alcohol related assaults have jumped across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, a trend attributed to the “watering down” of licensing laws and the removal of city liquor inspectors.

The 2 cities recorded increases in non-domestic assaults which rose by 6.9%). Shoplifting increased by 19.6%, stealing from a dwelling was up 8.7% and malicious damage to property went up by 9.6%.

According to the bureau, two-thirds of the rise in crime happened near licensed premises, indicating these crimes may be alcohol-fuelled.

Read more at http://www.theherald.com.au/story/4718047/assault-jump-concern-for-authorities/