TORONTO, May 16 (UPI) -- The crime rate among Canadian residents ages 12 to 17 increased by 3 percent from 2005 to 2006, a study has found.

A Canadian Center for Justice Statistics study of police data found that while the overall rate of youth-based crime decreased by 6 percent compared with rates a decade ago, violent crimes among the country's youth rose in 2006, Statistics Canada reported Friday.

The study of the crime statistics found that during a 10-year period, the rate of youth-related violent crimes increased by 12 percent. In comparison, 2006 violent crime statistics indicated that between 1991 and 2006 that rate increased by 30 percent.

Individuals aged 12 to 17 accused of drug-related crimes in 2006 also rose dramatically during that 10-year period, statistics indicate. The study found that the rate of such drug offenses nearly doubled during that time period, Statistics Canada said.

The crime rate information was based on those formerly charged with a criminal offense by police.