Fewer Victims Of Crime in Cheshire

 

Crime in Cheshire has fallen by a further 5% in the past year, and the chances of becoming a victim of crime are at their lowest since 1990 according to figures released today by the British Crime Survey.

The latest quarterly crime figures show falls across many categories of crime, including a substantial decrease in domestic burglary. There are 500 fewer victims of burglary across the county compared to the same period in 2011. This means that far fewer people are returning to their house and discovering their home has been targeted by thieves and fewer Cheshire residents are experiencing the emotional distress and financial implications that this particular crime brings.

Assistant Chief Constable Janette McCormick welcomed today’s findings. She said, "Our focus is very much upon the impact that crime can have upon its victims, and happily in Cheshire the chances of becoming a victim are at their lowest since 1990. For some time now we have adopted a sustained and intelligence led approach to reducing crime and antisocial behaviour in an effort to reduce levels of offending and in turn improve the quality of life for our residents and businesses."

ACC McCormick continued "Particularly reassuring is the indication that victims of rape and serious sexual offences have the confidence in policing to come forward and report the matter to us, resulting in more perpetrators of sex crimes − particularly historical sex crimes - being brought to justice. This has resulted in an increase in the number of sexual offences recorded."

There is good news for car owners as vehicle crime has again reduced. 300 fewer offences were reported compared to the same period in 2011, however the Constabulary is continuing to urge car owners to take responsibility for their vehicle security and to keep valuables out of sight as traditionally vehicle crime offences rise during the winter months.

A fall of 11% in violent crime that includes violence against the person causing injury equates to 600 fewer victims, including those victims subject to domestic assault. The Constabulary have recently launched campaigns to raise awareness of these issues including advice in respect of safe and responsible drinking and a campaign to support victims of domestic abuse. There has been a strong focus on policing the night-time economy with the introduction of the Archangel Protected Town scheme which maintains standards of behaviour around the pubs and clubs of four major towns in the County.

John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire said "I am delighted to see that the crime figures for Cheshire continue to fall. This is due to the dedication and commitment of the all the officers and staff who work hard to keep the people of Cheshire safe. I also believe that it can be attributed to the work being done with the most persistent and prolific criminals to reduce re-offending".