Police warn one punch can kill

One punch can kill logo

People enjoying a night out are being warned about the dangers of getting into a drunken fight, as Greater Manchester Police launches a hard-hitting campaign to combat alcohol-fuelled violence.

With the festive season now in full swing, Greater Manchester Police is working to reduce the levels of crime caused by partygoers drinking too much alcohol. Too much drink can turn a good night into a tragic disaster, with people behaving in ways they wouldn’t do normally and finding themselves in vulnerable situations.

Greater Manchester Police is working to raise awareness about how too much alcohol can have devastating consequences and to encourage people to enjoy a drink responsibly.

Young men aged 18-25 are the most likely to commit and be victims of serious violent crime. Forty per cent of victims of violent and serious violent crime are young men and the vast majority of offenders are men (77 per cent of violent crime and 86 per cent of serious violent crime).

Alcohol-fuelled violence has claimed the lives of 13 people over the past five years.

Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan said: “This is a particularly busy time of year when everyone’s in high spirits and enjoying a good night out. We’re not trying to spoil anyone’s fun but people need to realise that when you’ve had too much alcohol you leave yourself more open to becoming a victim of crime or getting yourself and others in trouble by behaving violently.

“It only takes one punch to kill someone and destroy the lives of people’s families. People who have had a drink do things they wouldn’t dream of doing when they’re sober and a stupid, split-second reaction can have devastating consequences.

“We’re appealing to people to think about their actions - avoid trouble and try not to get into arguments or vulnerable situations. By keeping control of your temper and walking away you could avoid destroying your life and the lives of others.”

Officers across Greater Manchester are working with licensed premises, universities and taxi firms to promote the campaign. Posters, window stickers and beer mats with a hard-hitting image are being displayed in pubs, clubs and bars.

A mother from Oldham whose son was killed by one punch tells her story here.