New crime statistics released today have revealed there were 19,828 fewer people (6%) who are victims of crime in the West Midlands – the biggest volume difference seen in any police force in England and Wales.
Key priority areas such as serious youth violence, vehicle crime, burglaries, robberies and gun crime have all seen reductions.
The number of positive outcomes – this includes where people have been charged or cautioned for an offence – have risen to just over 15% across most areas of crime.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “The latest crime statistics released today, are testament to the commitment, dedication, hard work and professionalism of officers, staff and partners across the West Midlands. Nearly 20,000 fewer people being a victim of crime, means fewer lives disrupted, fewer families living in fear and stronger, safer communities.
“It is particularly welcome, to see reductions in burglary, robbery, serious youth violence, knife crime and gun crime — all offences that cause significant harm. The reduction in knife-point robberies and the lowest number of firearms discharges in six years, show that mine and the force’s focus on tackling violence is paying off.
“The improvements in call handling, increases in arrests and offenders being brought to justice, also illustrate the real impact of the new local policing model, which is putting more officers back into neighbourhoods, where they are most needed.
“However, I am not in the least complacent. One victim of crime, is one too many. I will continue to hold West Midlands Police to account, on behalf of the people of the West Midlands, to ensure that there is continuous improvement, in preventing and tackling crime and safeguarding victims. There is, of course, still much more to do — particularly in relation to sexual offences, drugs and shop theft — but the direction of travel is positive.
“These figures show that robust policing, disruption and enforcement, combined with investment in prevention, early intervention and diversion and partnership working, are making a positive difference.
“I want to thank everyone within West Midlands Police and partners across the West Midlands, for their continued, constant and unremitting action to prevent and tackle crime. Together, we are building a West Midlands in which there is justice, safety and security, for all our people and communities.”
You can read the full details of the crime figures from West Midlands Police here.
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