Gardai to probe crime statistic irregularities

Another high-level internal Garda probe is being launched.

A report out today claims irregularities regarding crime statistics in one garda district are being investigated.

Garda letters allegedly show that unsolved burglaries in a housing estate are being pinned on a number of men, even though they have protested their innocence.

One letter suggests that the garda database be upgraded, recording the named men as offenders instead of suspects in the crimes.

The inquiry is being headed by Asst Garda Commissioner Pat O'Toole, head of the Garda Crime Branch.