MP Calls For More Decisive Action From Police Following Rise In Crime

MP Graham Stuart has reacted to news that the latest figures published show that the number of reported crimes in the region has increased.

Office of National Statistics released last week revealed 13pc rise in reported over a twelve month period, September 2015 to 2016 with Police and Crime Commissioner Keith Hunter blaming lack of resources for the rise.

Mr. Stuart, the MP for Beverley and Holderness says he has never had so many people write to him with concerns relating to Police in the region.

In statement released he called for decisive action saying;

“These crime figures bely the assurances I have received from senior officers in Humberside Police in recent months, including the Chief Constable, that people in Holderness have an exaggerated fear of crime.” 

“It’s very concerning that the figures show there has in fact been an increase in crime almost across the board and the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable now need to act decisively to tackle this.”

“I have never had as many people write to me to complain about policing in one year as in 2016, and like my constituents I don’t want to be fobbed off by the Police – I want reassurance that the Force is going to wake up to what’s going on and adapt its policy to deal with it.”

While the number of drug offences fell, there was an increase to the number of violent crime, robbery and commercial theft.

Despite the latest figures, the Chief Constable Justine Curran responded to a letter from the MP assuring him adding that residents fear of crime is often greater than the reality.

Police and Crime Commissioner Keith Hunter says lack of money means some areas, like the East Riding are yet to get additional resources, he said;

“In spite of ongoing cuts to funding I will work hard to get as many officers and PCSOs into communities as is possible, working in a more joined-up approach.”

“That is what the public tell me they want and that is what I am working to provide.”

“Police officers’ and PCSOs’ feet on the ground in areas where there is a need for them makes a real difference to peoples’ lives and levels of crime.”