PCC responds to latest recorded crime statistics
Norfolk's Police and Crime Commissioner Lorne Green has released the following statement in response to the publication of the latest recorded crime data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for England and Wales.
The quarterly statistics, released today by the ONS cover to the year ending June 2019, and show Norfolk to have the lowest crime rate in the East of England.
PCC Lorne Green, said: "Fortunately most of us remain untouched by criminality in our daily lives. It is reassuring that Norfolk remains one of the safest counties in which to live, work and visit. Latest recorded crime statistics show we continue to be in the top quartile of forces nationally for low rates of crime also making us the safest force in the Eastern region.
“It is pleasing certain crime types have seen a decrease, particularly in burglary and some theft offences. Against this however, it must be a cause for concern to see Norfolk is not exempt from national increases in crimes of violence and possession of weapons.
“Readiness of victims to report earlier and more often in crimes including sexual offences and stalking and harassment could be one explanation for such an increase. However, that alone cannot fully explain the increase across the country and the county in these and other categories.
"It is a sad commentary on society today that there is evidence of more violence, a readiness to carry weapons and the misuse of modern means of communication, including social media to exploit vulnerable people of all ages.
“Thankfully we have a Norfolk Constabulary that continues to be equipped with 21st century tools and processes to combat criminality in the 21st century.
“Important to me also, are programmes to increase resilience amongst the vulnerable in our Norfolk community and to rehabilitate ex-offenders.
“I have a separate mandate as Police and Crime Commissioner to do all in my power to protect the vulnerable and assist victims. These are core priorities for me and I am proud Norfolk is well served in this regard by a team of dedicated professionals in my office.”