Crime in Greater Manchester halves in 10 years

Crime has dropped by almost half in Greater Manchester during the past 10 years according to the latest figures.

Statistics show that between 2002 and 2012 total crime reduced from 383,074 to 207,687 a 46 per cent reduction. And between April 2011 and March 2012 there has been a nine per cent drop in total crime which means 19,997 fewer victims.

Figures for the financial year to March 2012 also show: 

• Domestic burglary down by 14 per cent with 2,679 fewer victims
• Vehicle crime down by 17 per cent with 4,091 fewer victims
• Antisocial behaviour reduced by nine per cent with 14,345 fewer incidents
• Robbery down by 14 per cent with 669 fewer victims
• Serious violent crime down by 18 per cent with 405 fewer victims 

Chief Constable Peter Fahy, said: “This has been a very challenging year for the Force but the dedication of our staff and the support of the public has led to this further significant reduction in crime. It has come about through strengthening relationships with local people through neighbourhood policing, and work with other agencies.

“Just as important has been our determined efforts against serious and organised crime. Those who create markets for stolen goods are as bad as those who commit the thefts. With fewer staff we have had to make sure that every single day we focus on the most persistent offenders and the best opportunities to make arrests and gather evidence. As important as the crime figures is the fact that independent surveys show that local people have more confidence in GMP and believe their area is getting safer.”

GMP has had success tackling metal theft under Operation Alloy and targeting burglary through Operation Storm. On Sunday the Force launched an operation to tackle thieves, robbers and car criminals with details of wanted offenders published on the ‘April Fool’ Flickr site.

Chief Constable Fahy added: “We are committed to building on the success in tackling crime and antisocial behaviour and will do that regardless of the financial pressures that we continue to face.”

Councillor Paul Murphy, Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Authority, said: “The reality of these figures is that there are fewer and fewer people becoming victims of crime and the police are making life harder for criminals, which is fantastic news for our communities.

“That GMP continues to bring down crime, despite the financial challenges, is testament to the commitment of police officers and staff. The Police Authority has also played a significant role in driving performance and challenging the Force to make sure they continue to improve the service delivered to the public.

“While the improvements are impressive, we can’t get complacent, and this is reflected in the ambitious targets we have set for the Force in this year’s Policing Plan.”

The Force has met the crime reduction priorities in the Policing Plan targets for 2011-2012 set by Greater Manchester Police Authority. The latest Policing Plan priorities were published on Monday 2 April and are available at www.gmp.police.uk