Today’s statistics show crime is increasing nationally and regionally. Whilst the West Midlands Police Force area has seen total recorded crime rise by 11%, elsewhere in the region; Warwickshire’s total recorded crime jumped by 19% in the last year, Staffordshire by 14% and West Mercia by 11%.
Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands, David Jamieson, said: “The rise in crime in the West Midlands and across the country is a major concern. These figures are further evidence the government needs to change course on police funding.
“Officers at the force work around the clock to prevent and catch those who decide to commit crimes and they are facing ever greater demands from an increasing threat of terror, levels of cyber-crime and a rise in the number of reported sex offences.
“The West Midlands Police has lost £145 million from central government since 2010. Despite being rated as outstandingly efficient by the Independent Inspectors the fact we have 2000 fewer officers fighting crime is starting to take its toll.
“Despite the challenges faced, we are determined to get on with the job of keeping people in the West Midlands safe.”
Recorded crime percentage increase year ending March 2016 compared to March 2017
| England & Wales | West Midlands | West Mercia | Warwickshire | Staffordshire |
| 11% | 11% | 11% | 19% | 14% |
