West Yorkshire's PCC responds to latest National Crime Statistics
17th July 2020
Responding to the latest Crime in England and Wales: year ending March 2020 statics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Mark Burns-Williamson said:
“It is extremely encouraging to see a continued reduction in overall crime across West Yorkshire and that the many positive initiatives are having a significant impact locally, beyond that of the national picture.
“Albeit I note that there is still much more to do in continuing to drive down overall crime trends, which have been heading in the right direction in West Yorkshire for the last two reported quarters.
“It is also a particularly pleasing outcome given that West Yorkshire Police is recognised as operating to the highest standards in crime recording, having previously received an ‘Outstanding’ grading by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Service (HMICFRS), only being one of two Forces to achieve that in England and Wales.
“Given my role as the national lead for serious violence among Police and Crime Commissioners, I know all too well the consequences and it is testament to the ongoing work of the Operation Jemlock team here in West Yorkshire that we are bucking the trends experienced elsewhere in the country, seeing greater reductions in categories for violence with and without injury, as well as the possession of offensive weapons. However, despite the improved overall trend we will need to better understand the rises in drugs related incidents and how much pro-active police and law enforcement activity may account for that.
“The recent launch of the west Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) for instance, is now building upon this position alongside our partners, with a specific public health focus. By concentrating on education and a grass roots approach, we hope to see our collective response strengthened even further, keeping people safe and feeling safe.
“Clearly the lockdown period that has come with COVID-19 will change again the complexion of the statistics in the months ahead, but we must not lose sight of our victims focus, which remains as relevant as ever before and I will be making sure that we capitalise on the ground we have already made.
“I would like to thank the officers and staff within the Force who are helping to make this happen on a daily basis and often in the most challenging of circumstances. I know from my many interactions with the public and local groups that it does not go unnoticed and communities value their ongoing dedication and commitment in keeping them safe and feeling safe.”