Number of robberies in county falls

Jul 4 2008 by Allison Dickinson, Chester Chronicle

CASES of robbery – theft where violence is used or threatened – have fallen dramatically in Cheshire over the last year.

Figures just released by Cheshire Constabulary show that there were 84 fewer victims (435) of personal robbery compared to the previous year, which equates to a 16% reduction.

The figures show an improvement in the business sector too, with attacks on premises falling by 19% to 137.

Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: “Overall, crime in Cheshire fell by 12% during the past year and it is particularly pleasing to see reductions in robberies, as they involve attacks on individuals and theft of their personal property.

“The number of robberies in Cheshire is falling but we must not be complacent. We will continue to put pressure on those criminals who are intent on depriving ordinary people of their money and property, and businesses of their profits. Every victim of robbery in Cheshire is one victim too many.”

Items such as iPods are particularly attractive to robbers and police are advising all members of the public, particularly young people, to think carefully about how and where they use expensive personal items such as mobile phones, MP3 players and satnavs.

Everyone can help stamp out this type of crime by taking a few sensible precautions like being aware of their surroundings and keeping their valuables hidden. Talking on a mobile phone, listening to an MP3 player or openly carrying a laptop is an open invitation to thieves that you have something worth taking.