Spike in violent crime, new data shows

OVERALL CRIME HAS INCREASED IN TOWN, ACCORDING TO POLICE DATA

VIOLENT offences have been rising in Huddersfield in recent months – according to the latest police data.

In the last three months, overall crime within Huddersfield has increased, with 1,542 recorded crimes in August, 1,572 in September and 1,617 in October.

Of these crimes, violent offences have also been rising, with 620 in August and 703 in September.

And of the 1,617 crimes reported in the area in October, 723 of these have been classed as ‘violence or sexual offences.’

The latest police data update for October 2021 has also revealed which streets within the town were the most violent during that month.

Glen Field Avenue, Deighton, recorded a total of nine offences for this type of crime in October.

Of these crimes, eight are still currently under investigation.

The next most violent street was recorded as Burbeary Road, Lockwood, with seven recorded violent or sexual offences taking place on or near the street in the same month.

Six violent crimes were also recorded on each of the following: Calton Street, Fernside Close, Green Street, Hollin Avenue, Manor Rise, Nether Crescent and Thorncliffe Street.

Alongside these crimes, a substantial number also took place at locations that couldn’t be tied to a single location – 27 were reported at a sports or recreation ground, seven in a shopping area, 24 in a parking area and 12 at or near a nightclub.

Last month West Yorkshire Police celebrated a reduction in crime in the twelve months to June 2021, when compared to the same period last year.

The force had previously revealed that there were 13,178 fewer victims of crime across the county, marking a 4.8 per cent reduction in crime across West Yorkshire. Speaking at the time, Chief Constable John Robins, said: “I am pleased that the hard work and commitment of police officers and staff across the county continues to have a positive impact on our communities, with 13,178 fewer victims of crime.

“Recorded crime was already going down before the Covid 19 pandemic. While this did have an impact it also delivered many other challenges on police officers, police staff, our partners and local communities. The public can be sure that this is a true picture of crime as we have worked tirelessly over a number of years to ensure that any crime reported to us is recorded accurately.”