Crime in Cheshire has risen by more than 32% – a staggering 21,593 offences – according to Office of National Statistics figures
The latest figures released today compares crime recorded between April 2016 and March 2017 with April 2017 and March 2018.
And an overall 32.9% rise is shown in Cheshire – with an alarming 12% rise in knife-related crime, and also rises in burglary and vehicle crime.
But Cheshire Police chiefs say figures should be taken in “context”.
They say changes to the way certain incidents are now recorded as crime, is partially to blame for the rise.
Darren Martland (pictured), Deputy Chief Constable of Cheshire Constabulary, said: “Although the figures show and increase in overall crime, it is important to understand the context and reasons for the increase.
“Following an inspection of crime recording, conducted by HMICFRS in February 2017, Cheshire Constabulary took steps to review our crime recording processes and ensure that we were complying with Home Office counting rules.
“For example, previously, disorder in a public area was recorded as anti-social behaviour but it is now it is recorded as a crime (public order) which has shown an increase of 79% (7,552 offences).”
The Constabulary was recently re-inspected by HMICFRS.
It is expected to show a significant improvement from the previous rating of ‘inadequate’, say police chiefs.
DCC Martland added: “It is important to add that, in addition to the increases in crime that are believed to be attributable to the improvement in crime recording, there have been increases in other offences, which include vehicle offences, burglary and knife-related crime.
“The Constabulary has recently undertaken an operation to tackle ‘county lines’ which led to 29 people jailed for more than 180 years for dealing drugs in Cheshire.
“We have had an ongoing operation in Runcorn tackling those who carry knives in the town which has seen dozens of arrests and we’ve also cracked down on burglars targeting homes for family gold.
“I would also like to highlight that, while there have been increases in these categories of crime, they have been less than the national average and Cheshire Constabulary has some of the lowest crime rates for these offences in the country.
“Our officers and staff are committed to working with our partners to prevent crime, support victims and protect vulnerable people.”
Victims of crime in Cheshire should report it to Cheshire Police online at https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
In an emergency always dial 999.
For crime prevention advice log onto www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/home-safety-and-security.
For advice on the support available for victims of crime visit www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/advice-and-support-for-victims.
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