Crime Rates Down in Bridgend

Figures released by the Home Office on Thursday, 23rd April reveal that crime in the Bridgend area has fallen in the final quarter of 2008.

Quarterly statistics show an overall reduction in crime of 2.1 per cent, or 52 fewer victims, between October and December 2008 compared to the same period the previous year.

House burglaries – one of the most distressing crimes for victims and communities – fell by 2.2 per cent, while violent crime was also down 1.1 per cent and car crime down by 10.9 per cent.

Divisional commander for Bridgend, Chief Superintendent Dave Dando, said: “These figures illustrate that we are succeeding in our efforts to make Bridgend a safe place for everyone and together with our partners we are working hard to make our communities even safer.

“We have seen decreases in crime in all the main categories of burglary and violent crime as well as a significant decrease of 26.5 per cent in thefts of motor vehicles during the period.

“Figures also show an eight per cent rise in drug trafficking but a fall of 21 per cent in other drug offences which are direct results of our proactive approach in dealing with these issues.”

With crime continuing to fall and detection rates rising, one of the biggest challenges facing the police service is challenging the perception of crime.

The introduction of local crime mapping and the continued development of the ourbobby.com website provide the public greater access to information about crime in their area.

Chief Supt Dando added: “I am delighted we are reducing crime, detecting more crime and improving the quality of service we provide to victims of crime.

“We are also working to ensure perception of crime reflects reality and to allow people to feel safe in their communities.”