Police hail drop in crime rates (From Knutsford Guardian)

Police hail drop in crime rates

11:30am Monday 4th February 2013 in News

Police hail drop in crime rates

CHESHIRE’S crime rate fell by five per cent in 2012 while the chances of becoming a victim in the county are at its lowest level in nearly 25 years.

According to the latest quarterly 2012 figures released by the British Crime Survey, there were 500 fewer domestic burglary cases across Cheshire compared to the same period in 2011.

Other offences to experience a notable fall in the county include an 11 per cent drop in violent crime – including domestic assault – and 300 fewer vehicle crimes.

Assistant Chief Constable Janette McCormick 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.”

ACC McCormick also revealed more perpetrators of rape and serious sexual offences are being brought to justice thanks to victims having the confidence to come forward to the police.

The introduction of the Archangel Protected Town scheme – launched in Knutsford last year – has furthered the policy of curbing alcohol-related crime in the Cheshire’s pubs and clubs.

John Dwyer, Cheshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “I am delighted to see that the crime figures for Cheshire continue to fall.

“This is due to the dedication and commitment of all the officers and staff.”