CASES of robbery have fallen dramatically in Cheshire, according to figures released by police.
There were 84 fewer victims of personal robbery compared with 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 – we are 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.
“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.”
“Although the chances of being a victim of robbery are low and getting lower all the time, there are steps you can take to protect yourself even more.
“It is the younger people in our communities who are the main victims of personal robberies, as they tend to carry expensive items. Our data shows the majority of robberies happen on Friday and Saturday nights between 6pm and 11pm, which is when young people tend to be out and about.
“In particular, iPods are attractive to robbers and we are advising young people and all members of the public to think carefully about how and where they use expensive personal items such as mobile phones, MP3 players and sat-navs.
“Such small items are very attractive to thieves as they are easily concealed when stolen and expensive to buy.”
