CASES of robbery – theft where violence is used or threatened – have fallen dramatically in Cheshire.
Figures just released by Cheshire Constabulary show that instances of personal and business robbery fell during 2007/08.
There were 84 fewer victims 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%.
Cheshire’s 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.
“I believe this sort of crime is falling because of the work we as a constabulary are doing – targeting the right people and using neighbourhood policing to get more intelligence from residents.
“Many of these offenders carry out robbery to feed a drug habit and often take big risks for small amounts of money. We are pleased that, after our work to arrest and charge them, the courts treat robbery very seriously no matter what value was taken.
“But we must not be complacent. We will continue to put pressure on those criminals who are intent on depriving people of their money and property and businesses of their profits. Every victim of robbery in Cheshire is one victim too many.”
