Crime rate rises as police numbers fall

THE newly-released crime statistics for Wales reveal a set of extremely disturbing trends.

It is shocking that there has been a 52% increase in knife crime over the last seven years, with a 25% jump in the last year alone.

Other significant increases have been recorded in Wales for crimes classified as “violence against the person”, with a particular leap in those covering stalking and harassment.

Sexual offences have also shown a disturbing increase, as have robberies.

Generally, the proportion of recorded crimes solved has dropped to below one in 10, while the number of police officers is at its lowest for more than 20 years.

This last statistic may, we suggest, be a significant factor affecting the increases in crime.

When communities have police officers who are known and who are visible, there is an element of deterrence in place for would-be offenders.

Those who commit crimes do so in the belief that they will not get caught. In recent years, cuts imposed on all forces have in effect amounted to a retreat from the communities they are meant to be policing.

Criminals are part of the community too – and they cannot fail to have noticed the closure of police stations, the reduction of officer presence and the siting of police vehicles in more remote locations. No wonder that an increasing number of them feel emboldened.

Knives are used as weapons both in robberies and in fights. There is a clear need for police to take stringent action against those who carry them.

The UK Government remains responsible for policing in Wales. It’s time responsibility – and the money that goes with it – was devolved to the Welsh Government.

It is difficult also to avoid the conclusion that years of austerity must have had an impact on crime rates. While the great majority of poor people are law-abiding, some will regrettably resort to criminal means as a way of feeding their family.

On the other hand, there are also career criminals who will engage in illegal activities whatever the economic climate.

Citizens have a right to live their lives in safety. As well as providing economic security, governments have a duty to fund our police forces at levels where crime can be kept down.