By KALEY LYON

klyon@dailynews.net

Hays crime rates have decreased from 2006-2007, Hays Police Chief Jim Braun said Tuesday at a city press briefing.

The latest statistics have been obtained from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and Hays crime rates are among the state's lowest when compared to 19 similarly sized cities, he said.

"Hays has traditionally had a very low crime rate index, and we continue that trend this year," Braun said.

Hays has the second lowest rate in crimes per thousand, with a rate of 33.1 crimes for every 1,000 residents, and the rate of property crimes. According to the data, there were 588 property crimes reported in 2007.

Hays also ranked the fourth lowest regarding violent crime, with 63 reported last year.

This year's general crime index is slightly lower than 2006, when crime rates spiked slightly, Braun said.

2007 also saw marked decreases in the amount of thefts and stolen vehicles.

Braun credits the decreasing trends to the fact Hays citizens take the initiative to help local law enforcement do its job.

"I would like to congratulate the citizens of Hays, because I feel they play a big role in our having a low crime rate index," he said. "Something I see in our community is we still have the neighborhood attitude where people care about what happens in their community."

Another factor is the fact that the city police department makes efforts to be proactive, rather than reactive, he said.

The department maintains an active presence in higher-risk situations, such as when the local bars close, Oktoberfest and in responding to loud party calls, Braun said.

"We don't just respond to the calls, we try to be out there and prevent crime from happening," he said. "I think we're having an impact."