Tackling local crime

It’s been a hectic few weeks for me since my start in February.

I’m starting to introduce some new initiatives, many of which are already taking effect. These are in addition to those problems identified as issues by the local community which, at present, include anti-social behaviour at certain hot spots in the city and ‘street trading' activities on Gentleman’s Walk and London Street.

There are other issues officers in the city will be focussing on, like purse-dipping and pick-pocketing in the city centre. Unfortunately, this is not confined to a Dickens’ novel!

We have started to distribute information to raise awareness among shoppers and step-up patrols in those areas affected. We are urging people to be alert and secure their valuables and can offer devices – such as purse alarms – which can help improve security.

Similarly, opportunist thieves are stealing items of personal property such as handbags and mobile phones from pubs, clubs and bars in the evenings. We’re working with the licensed premises and their security staff to reduce instances of unattended property and better target CCTV locations. If you queue outside of these venues, you’re also likely to be approached by officers reminding you to keep an eye on your belongings when inside.

Lastly, we’re working even more closely with specific retails stores in the city centre worst affected by shoplifting, by giving advice and support where required. Officers are now a regular feature both outside and inside some of these stores. People entering shops with the intention of stealing should expect to be challenged by officers and store security.

I’m also developing relationships with local high schools to ensure that young people getting involved in stealing are deterred at an early stage - a conviction can have a very negative impact on the rest of their lives.

We continue to examine patterns of crime and anti-social behaviour, to help identify offenders and victims who may need our support.

I will update you all again next month, and let you know how we are getting on and about any new initiatives on the horizon.

Thanks for reading,