Crime rates saw huge fall in pandemic

FIGURES revealed yesterday show that robbery, theft and burglary have fallen significantly across Staffordshire up to the year ending December 2020.

Staffordshire has seen a 16 per cent decrease in robbery and a 20 per cent reduction in theft offences, with theft from a person down overall by 46 per cent. Vehicle offences are also down by 17 per cent overall. The county has seen a 11 per cent reduction in overall burglary types and six per cent decrease in violence with injury.

However, in line with the national picture, some types of crime have seen an increase. Stalking and harassment has increased by 41 per cent and violence against the person has increased overall by 17 per cent.

Deputy Chief Constable Emma Barnett said: “I’m pleased that Staffordshire has seen further decreases in recorded crime and while we know the pandemic has had an effect we are determined to maintain these reductions as we see the restrictions ease.

“The force continues to focus on protecting victims of domestic abuse, and stalking and harassment, working closely with partners to make sure victims get the support they need. Our #Youarenotalone campaign, run as part of a national governmentbacked initiative, saw officers focus on domestic abuse particularly during the lockdown periods, and this continues.

“Violent crime also continues to be a priority and we know the impact that such crimes have on our communities. We are using the investments made from the precept increase, and the additional officers we have recruited through the national uplift programme, to improve our capacity and capabilities to disrupt criminality and tackle the issues that matter the most to local communities.”