[T]he latest figures released by Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner show that while overall crime has remained stable sexual offences have increased by 25%.
The figures from April 2016 to the end of March 2017 detail that there have been 551 crimes less than compared to the previous 12 months, which equates to a 2% decrease. Anti-social behaviour has also shown a decrease of 11% which equates to 1,525 less incidents and youth anti-social behaviour has decreased by 2%, a reduction of 60 incidents.
Commenting on the latest figures, Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall said: “I welcome the news that crime figures remain stable over the last 12 months. Although we are not complacent and even one victim of crime is one victim too many.
“Violence against the person and domestic violence have remained at a consistent level, overall violence against the person has fallen by 1.4% equating to 102 less crimes and domestic abuse crimes have decreased by 1%. It is important that people have the confidence to come forward and report domestic abuse which is still under reported.
“One of the areas that has seen the biggest increase is sexual offences (excluding rape) which has increased by 718 crimes (25%) and it is important that victims have the confidence to come forward and report. One in four of these crimes are non-recent (historic) and we encourage people to take the very brave step and speak out. You will be believed and we have specially trained officers to support you. Victims can contact the dedicated support service The Bridgeway directly.
“Whilst overall ASB has fallen we are not complacent. I am aware that in the last few weeks there have been a number of localised spikes in ASB and the police have ongoing operations to proactively address them.
“The 101 telephone service continues to be a concern. There is a rolling programme of improvements being implemented but these are taking time. I am actively monitoring them to ensure that the service improves.
“I will continue to hold the Chief Constable to account for the force’s performance at my Public Accountability Conferences where I receive regular updates and scrutinise how the Constabulary are addressing the changing nature of crime.
“Overall, these latest figures demonstrate the high-level of support the police in Cumbria receive from you and the quality service they deliver in return, in the face of increasing demand and the challenges surrounding extremism. It is only by us all working together we will keep us all safe.”
Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Sean Robinson said: “I welcome the review of our 2016 / 17 performance figures, which show that Cumbria continues to have low levels of crime and anti-social behaviour. It is encouraging to see overall crime levels remaining static, and a reduction in a significant number of crime types.
“These statistics reflect the continued hard work that Cumbria Constabulary undertakes with partners to keep people, particularly those most vulnerable, safe.
“In line with the national trend, Cumbria has seen rises in reports of rape and other sexual offences. These are typically under-reported crimes and a lot of work has been done to encourage victims to come forward. It is positive to see that people are gaining confidence to report these crimes, and that they now benefit from the services available at The Bridgeway.
“Our priority is, and will continue to be, to keep people safe. Following recent tragic events in Manchester and London, it is even more important the communities help us to do this. Throughout the summer we will continue with increased reassurance patrols in our communities and at public events. I would ask members of the public to remain vigilant and to let us know if they have any doubts or suspicions.
“By working together we can continue to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour, and keep the county a safe place to live, work and visit.”
