Crime reduced in south Rochdale

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Crime has been reduced by more than 19 per cent in south Rochdale thanks to a clampdown on offenders.

Figures show that between 1 April and 30 June there were 212 fewer victims of crime across the town, when compared to the same period the previous year.

Communities in the south Rochdale, which covers Kingsway, Castleton, Milkstone and Deeplish and Balderstone and Kirkholt have also seen a 16 per cent reduction in burglary, 27 per cent reduction in vehicle crime and 44 per cent drop in violence.

A series of policing initiatives and the targeting of known offenders has helped produce this result. This included increased patrols in our problem areas at the times identified by the public, visits to the homes in areas affected by crime and issuing crime prevention leaflets. Youth services were also offering youngsters alternative activities to take part in as part of the Safe4Summer campaign during the summer break.

Operation Remedy was launched by the team to tackle concerns over burglary in the Kirkholt area. Since its launch on 24 June burglary has dropped by 17 per cent and the team have arrested a prolific offender who was wanted for a number of burglary offences.

Inspector Dave Lees for Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Seeing that the hard work of the team is paying off is great, but I would like to remind everyone that we will not rest on our laurels.

“Our new service promise outlines our commitment to continue tackling the problems as identified by you and to work with communities to provide the best possible service. It is important to ensure our work continues and to see more of the criminals pay the price of their crime.

“However, we can’t achieve these results on our own. Residents must remember to ensure all vulnerable windows and doors are kept locked even when you are in your home.

“Our research shows that one in three burglaries happen as a result of people leaving their windows open like this and by taking these simple precautions you can prevent yourself from being a victim of crime.”

The team also launched their summer anti-social behaviour campaign, Operation Rush. The initiative coincided with the school break and saw neighbourhood officers increase patrols in hotspot areas. They have been supported by Youth Services and Community Safety Officers to usher young people to a range of activities available to them over the summer period.

Inspector Lees added: “Prior to the break we held a series of inputs at schools in the town reminding pupils about the importance of keeping personal possessions away from prying eyes when out and about. We hope that these steps will help to continue reducing personal robbery.”

Residents in south Rochdale can contact the Neighbourhood Policing Team directly about any issues related to crime or anti-social behaviour on:

Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Team (Kingsway, Castleton, Milkstone and Deeplish and Balderstone and Kirkholt) on 0161 856 8549 / rochdalesouthpartnership@gmp.police.uk

To report crime call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit www.gmp.police.uk