Notts: Violent crime, sexual offences and possession of weapons increase across county

Violent crime, sexual offences and possession of weapons across Notts has increased, according to new figures released.
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Police

The Office for National Statistics has published national crime figures for July 2013 to June 2014.

Overall crimes across the county have remained static, with no increase or decrease year on year.

Domestic burglary, theft from the person, drugs offences and criminal damage have fallen.

ACC Simon Torr said: “Across the country the way violent crime is recorded has changed, which explains why we, like most forces, have seen a significant recorded rise in the number of violent crimes.”

“Increased reporting of sexual offences and domestic violence shows that victims have greater confidence that if they report what has happened to the police, they will be taken seriously and a full investigation will be carried out, regardless of when the offence happened. National publicity and local campaigns also urges people to come forward and report it.”

The force’s Alliance Against Violence campaign continues to urge people join in the stand against violence, as offences resulting in people sustaining injuries saw an increase of 17 per cent (1231 crimes). Possession of offensive weapons has also increased by 117 offences, up from 472 to 589.

Burglary, where offenders targeted people’s homes, has reduced by 1 per cent, with 63 fewer victims, while criminal damage fell by 6 per cent (593 offences) and arson reduced by 9 per cent. (36 offences).

Mr Torr added: “While we have seen an increase in violence with injury, there have been steady reductions in offences such as murder and grievous bodily harm. This is a priority area for us, and we have used operations such as Promote to identify those using drugs and drinking excessively, which can increase the chances of people becoming violent.”

“Darker nights are set to draw in later this month and we would urge the public to work with us in securing their homes, removing items from on show in their vehicles and taking steps to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”

“We have introduced the use of Capture bikes in areas where bicycles have been targeted by thieves, and we are working closely with our partners to get to the root of crime, and ensure activity is targeted where and when it is needed.”