Crime at lowest level for 11 years

Burglar

There are nearly 18,000 fewer victims of crime across Greater Manchester than at the same time last year, according to quarterly figures released today.

Total crime in the area has reduced by 7.4 per cent.

The Home Office figures released today, Thursday 20 October 2011, cover the 12 months between July 2011 and June 2011.

They show that the Force has reduced crime to its lowest figure in 11 years.

There have been significant reductions across all the force priority crimes - domestic burglaries, robberies, vehicle crimes and criminal damage.

Comparing July 2010 to June 2011: 

• Incidents of crime fell from 239,126 to 221,363 - 17,763 less victims of crime
• 1,513 fewer victims of domestic burglary (17,629 crimes compared to 19,142 last year)
• 935 fewer victims of robbery (4,708 compared to 5,643 last year)
• 6,908 fewer victims of crimes against vehicles (24,640 compared to 31,548 last year)
• 6,746 fewer victims of criminal damage (38,552 crimes compared to 45,298 last year)
• 2,765 fewer victims of violence against the person (41,616 crimes compared to 38,851 last year)
• 53 fewer victims of sexual offences (2,819 crimes compared to 2,872 last year) 

Deputy Chief Constable Simon Byrne, said: "The real story behind these figures is that there are fewer and fewer people having their lives ruined by criminals.

"This three-monthly update reinforces a really encouraging trend across Greater Manchester - crime is at its lowest level since the millennium and continues to fall.

"They demonstrate that we are making it harder for criminals to operate and safer for potential victims of crime - all at a time when budget cuts are adding extra pressure to the force.

"We have listened to what people in our communities are telling us and with big reductions in burglaries, robberies and vehicle crime - things that really matter to people - we are making them feel safer and less fearful of crime.

"We cannot lose sight of the fact that all victims of crime are real people and they have to face the very real consequences of crime. It is with real people in mind that we continue to strive to reduce the misery caused by crime."

Councillor Paul Murphy, Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Authority said: "The figures published today show just how far the Force has come in terms of successfully tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.

"The fact that crime is at its lowest level in 11 years is a testament to the commitment and dedication of GMP police officers and police staff. The budget cuts faced by the Force and other public authorities are making the job of crime fighting more and more challenging, but this is a challenge that I have every confidence the Force will continue to meet.

"The improvements are impressive, however, I would emphasise that Greater Manchester Police Authority will continue to robustly scrutinise and challenge the Force on performance. This is a key part of our role and a responsibility we take very seriously."