According to NT Police crime statistics released yesterday, there were 153 commercial break-ins in the past year, ending April 1.

There were 86 in the previous year.

The large rise has prompted the NT Opposition to call for an increase use of electronic monitoring bracelets for repeat offenders.

Deputy Opposition leader Lia Finocchiaro said the Government had recently revealed only eight bracelets had been fitted in the past year.

“When used correctly, electronic monitoring can reduce re-offending by up to 50 per cent,” Ms Finocchiaro said.

“I’d also like to see solutions that involve parents and carers of the perpetrators required to front court when youth offenders continually break the law.”

In other Katherine crime rises, assaults have risen 15.6 per cent with more than one alcohol related assault reported each day in Katherine.

Sexual assaults have also risen 21 per cent, to 40 in the past year.

The biggest fall in crime has been with car theft, dropping by almost a third year on year.

Commander Matt Hollamby said domestic violence and alcohol were again dominant factors in reported assaults.

“Operation Haven was initiated in Katherine targeting repeat DV victims and offenders and compliance with Domestic Violence Orders,” Commander Hollamby said.

“Operations of this nature can drive crime rates up through policing intensity. Property crime abated from previous months but opportunistic offending targeting food and alcohol continued to be a feature in reported crimes.”

He said the tourist season presents an opportune time to reinforce two key policing messages.

“The first is crime prevention - ‘lock it or lose it.’ Ensure you secure your valuable items to reduce opportunistic crimes. The second important message is road safety. Our roads are busier at this time of the year and we should all be aware of the significant contributors to serious crashes – speed, alcohol and drugs, fatigue, a lack of seat belts and inattention.”

Ms Finocchiaro said there was a law and order crisis facing Territorians, underpinned by continuing alcohol related violence and a lack of action by the Territory government.

“Territorians are tired of being the victims of crime, and footing the bill.

“These latest statistics reinforce that the Banned Drinker Register (BDR) continues to fail as a standalone tool, as alcohol related assault figures increased across all six (6) geographical regions for which crime stats are reported and 19 per cent Territory wide.”

Police encourages the community to report all suspicious activity and offending by reporting crimes to 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Further, NT Police encourage the community to access the Neighbourhood Watch NT website, which provides some practical tips on how you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim.