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Crime in Cumbria down but sex offences increase

STATISTICS released by the Home Office show crime in Cumbria has dropped 10 per cent in the past year – but sexual offences have increased.

Incidents reduced from 33,160 in 2007/2008 to 29,729 in 2008/2009, but there was a 16 per cent increase in reports of sexual offences, a ten per cent rise in robbery and a five per cent rise in burglary.

Cumbria Constabulary is the second highest force nationally for inspiring confidence within the public, and the reduction of 3,431 crimes is a considerable improvement on last year’s statistics.

Regarding the rise in sexual offences, Chief Constable Craig Mackey said: “They are on one hand worrying, but on the other a welcome rise, as one of the major hurdles faced by victims is working up the courage to report incidents to the police.”

He added the police would focus on reducing these numbers, by using the officers and facilities available which offer support to victims and investigate sexual offences.

Mr Mackey said: “It is always disappointing to learn that specific types of crime are on the rise, but by constantly taking stock of crime trends across Cumbria, we can ensure that we shift our focus to tackle these issues as a priority.”

Burglary and robberies have been named as top priorities and the force aims to reduce these by working within local communities to set up Neighbourhood Watch and Farm Watch schemes.

Mr Mackey said he believed the overall crime rate had fallen due to the police “engaging with local communities to find out exactly what issues they want us to tackle.”

He added: “Our aim is also to improve the quality of life in Cumbria by resolving the issues that matter most in each town and village.”

Criminal damage has fallen by 17 per cent, vehicle crime by 12 per cent, violence against a person by nine per cent, drug offences by six per cent and fraud by two per cent.

To help combat crime, the force has introduced Safer Stronger Community meetings, where local people can vote for policing priorities. Monthly updates are also provided on the force website and in newsletters.