Crime in town falls by 8.7% but 'still tons of work to do'

A CRIME reduction project in Stockton is being rolled out to different parts of Teesside, while a town centre operation was described as "going from strength to strength".

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT

Chief Inspector Andy Evans from neighbourhood policing in Cleveland Police told how recorded crime in Stockton had reduced by 8.7% from the previous year. Safer Stockton Partnership heard on Wednesday, of reductions in types of crime - death or serious injury caused by illegal driving had fallen by 70%, stalking and harassment 15%, public order offences 17% and violence in general down by 6.8%.

The number of sexual offences had risen by 13.7% in the last year. Chf Insp Evans said: "It's never a positive to see sexual offences but it does come with a caveat that we do want victims to feel comfortable coming forward speaking to us. The key there is progressing these enquiries and making sure it's a positive situation for them, so that prevents offences in future and makes sure they feel supported."

Chf Insp Evans said last month was "difficult" but the cases had been reviewed, and there had been three recent charges, one case to be followed up imminently and others under investigation.

Theft offences were down 18%, including home burglaries down 35% and burglaries at businesses falling by 23%.

Chf Insp Evans said the reductions were "really pleasing", adding: "I'm glad that continues, it's definitely one we want to hang our hat on."