Crime Statistics Reinforce PCCs Drive to Build Safer Communities

Figures released today from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) give further drive to the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioners commitment to reforming West Mercia Police, in order to build safer, more secure communities.

The figures show a 13% increase in overall recorded crime in West Mercia, along with a 16% increase in recorded violent offences and 23% increase in recorded sexual offences. The Crime Survey of England and Wales (CSEW) shows a decrease in reported crime*. The figures are broadly in line with the national picture.

Commissioner John Campion said “I am committed to building communities where people are secure and feel secure, and my commitment to continue to protect frontline police numbers within my budget proposals is reflective of this. I will continue to invest to make West Mercia Police more efficient, and therefore more effective

Whilst I am reassured to see that recorded crime is on the increase, as it shows the improved confidence our communities have in the police there is still much more to do.

Through my ongoing work around reform, the police are in a better position to respond to demand and address the needs of the public. This will continue as I build on what has already been achieved through further investments in technology, closer partnership working such as the proposed changes around fire governance and through grant investments to further understand and tackle the root causes of crime.

I will continue to ensure that West Mercia Police is working efficiently and effectively to tackle existing and emerging demand, in order to protect our communities.”

See the figures at https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/crimeinenglandandwales/yearendingseptember2017

*Reported crime is incidents reported as part of CSEW but not necessarily reported to and recorded by the police.

Issued: Thursday 25th January 2017