Article: Identity theft sees 60 percent increase.(Crime)(Law enforcement: However, assault, murder and property crimes declined in 2001, Eugene police say.)

Byline: TRICIA SCHWENNESEN The Register-Guard

It may appear that fewer thieves and burglars are practicing their craft in Eugene, but police say the criminals have simply found an easier way to "make" money.

The latest fad - identity theft.

In 2001, reports of burglary dropped more than 6 percent and theft by nearly 3 percent. But the number of reported identity theft cases jumped by more than 60 percent from the previous year and nearly 80 percent since 1999, according to Eugene Police Department annual statistics.

"It's gone through the ceiling," Detective Doug Jordan said. "More and more, it's the crime of choice."

Eugene ...

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