Verbal update of crime statistics and Policing issues in the Area.
Minutes:
It is noted that due to changes in the way that crimes are now recorded, overall across the City there has been an increase in reported crime. This is due to reports, including calls to the Police telephone number 101, being recorded as a crime prior to any other confirmation that a crime has been committed.
Inspector Gordon Fenwick, Nottinghamshire Police, provided the following information regarding Wollaton West:
o Overall there was an increase of 147 incidents compared to the same period last year;
o overall burglary has decreased by 11% in the past year, although during the summer there was an increase in motor crime and burglary. This became the focus of Police activity which has resulted in three criminals who worked together, being arrested, charged, sentenced and sent to prison. Since these arrests the number of incidents has fallen dramatically;
o there’s been a reduction by 24 incidents of auto crime. This may be a result of heightened Police visibility whilst pursuing the fore- mentioned burglars;
o shop theft has increased considerably;
o A speeding check was undertaken on Torvill Drive. Of the 66 vehicles checked, 29 were travelling above the 20 mph speed limit and were dealt with appropriately. Further speed limit enforcement and education is planned;
o the Police CCTV van has been active and very visible in the area which has been welcomed by citizens.
Members of the Committee expressed concern that speeding and jumping of traffic lights continued to be a safety issue at the junction of Wollaton Road, Eton Grove and Woodhall Road. Councillors have received several complaints about speeding and also the inappropriate use of the yellow box. The Chair commented that a Police presence at peak traffic times would be very welcome, to which Inspector Gordon Fenwick responded that this information would be passed on.
It was noted that the Police have been working very successfully on the Nidderdale Estate to reduce antisocial behaviour by facilitating a scheme at the Wollaton Vale Community Centre.
Police Inspector Rob Wilson updated the Committee with the following information regarding Wollaton East and Lenton Abbey Ward’s:
o The Ward is in a positive position with a reduction in crime and antisocial behaviour. There have only been 15 additional crimes which equates to a rise of 3.7%, whereas under the new reporting regime the Force average is nearer a 20% increase;
o burglaries have reduced by 12 (a decrease of 19%);
o violent crime has reduced with 15 fewer incidents (18% reduction);
o theft has increased, mainly due to bicycle thefts from University students;
o there has been a 4% reduction in antisocial behaviour;
o home burglaries have increased with 14 more incidents, mainly focused around the University campus and Lenton area due to doors and windows being left open or forced. A known offender has been identified, arrested and remanded. As a result there’s been a significant drop in incidents and Police continue to work with the University to promote home security amongst students;
o car crime has increased, especially around Hillside Road by the Queen’s Medical Centre, so patrols of the area have been increased.
The Beat Teams have been doing an excellent job but also rely on other policing sections such as response CID and specialist departments. Although having experienced extensive funding cuts, the force appears to be stabilising and is looking to recruit 200 new Police Officers next year, with a further 150 the year after. PC and PCS recruitment will continue, as will the recruitment of civilians to investigation roles where full Police qualification is not required.
Councillors and members of the Committee expressed gratitude that the consistency of local Police Officers had been maintained.
It was clarified that while a police officer may not always necessarily attend a shop theft incident, information on the crime, including CCTV footage, can be shared electronically with the Police who can then use it to try and identify the culprit. With the communications technology currently available, it is no longer necessary for Police Officers to physically attend every incident.
RESOLVED to thank Inspector Gordon Fenwick and Inspector Rob Wilson for their attendance and updates.