News Release
Crime drops across Newcastle
Dated: 05 Apr 2011
There were more than 1,700 fewer victims across Newcastle as crime continues to drop in the city.
Northumbria Police's annual figures show crime has reduced by 6.7% in Newcastle - down to 24,380 offences for 2010/11 compared to 26,128 the previous year.
Crime is down in most categories, with violent crime down almost 13% - that's almost 700 fewer victims - and vehicle crime down more than 5%.
Burglary was down slightly by almost 2% - 56 fewer victims - while criminal damage dropped more than 15% which equates to 816 fewer crimes.
The number of sexual offences was down by 53 crimes - a 16% reduction, while racially and religiously motivated offences were down 33% with more than 80 fewer crimes.
The detection rate in Newcastle has increased to 42% in 2010/11 compared to 41% the previous year.
Drug crime remained at exactly the same level despite continued pro-active work across the city to target those involved in the misuse and supply of drugs.
Newcastle Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Graham Smith said: "This reduction in overall crime is good news for our communities and means last year there was more than 1,700 fewer victims of crime across the city.
"This is on top of year-on-year reductions in Newcastle, meaning the city continues to be an even safer place to live. We'll be working hard in the coming months to build on the good work of the past year.
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their continued help and support in tackling crime and working closely with their local officers so we can ensure we are targeting the areas and people that are causing the most concerns.
"Together with our partners, we hope you will keep working with us to tackle any issues as they arise and ensure Newcastle continues to be a safe city to live in and enjoy."
Cllr. Anita Lower, Chair of Safe Newcastle, added: "These figures are very encouraging and in partnership we will continue our work in neighbourhoods to find solutions to local problems.
"SNAPS (Safe Neighbourhoods Action & Problem Solving) groups operate in every ward across the city, bringing together the police, council and other relevant services to make sure this happens."
To contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team contact 03456 043 043 or visit your neighbourhood pages on the force website