PCC responds to crime statistics

Today’s  statistics show crime is increasing nationally and regionally. The West Midlands Police Force area has seen total recorded crime (excluding fraud) rise by 10%, it has also risen by 10% across England and Wales.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, David Jamieson, said:
“These statistics show crime is continuing to rise across the West Midlands and the entirety of England and Wales. This further emphasises the need for more police resources which I have been calling on the government to provide us with for some time.

“I continue to have concerns about the increase in violent crime which these statistics show has risen in the West Midlands. That is why I am investing £2 million to tackle the root causes of violent crime.”

“In response I am doing all I can to drive efficiencies. I am cutting down on bureaucracy and giving officers the technology to do their job on the move, so they don’t have to come back to a police building unnecessarily. These efficiencies are helping officers spend more time tackling crime and keeping people safe.

“However West Midlands Police has faced £175 million in central government cuts since 2010. Despite being recognised by independent inspectors as a highly efficient force, we have lost over 2,000 officers since 2010, meaning we are having to do more with fewer resources. The force is facing real-terms cuts to its spending power.

“These figures highlight the short-sighted approach of the government by continuing to apply real-terms cuts to police forces’ funding at a time when the pressures on policing are increasing. This is hampering the proactive policing in communities that helps to prevent crime.

“Despite the challenges faced, we are determined to get on with the job of keeping the people of the West Midlands safe.

“To standstill West Midlands Police needs £17 million and a further £25.2 million to increase police numbers by 500 to make the real difference to crime that we need. The government needs to take note of these statistics and give police forces like the West Midlands the resources we need.”

Increase in crime (excluding fraud comparing with England and Wales and most similar police forces)