Levels of violent and sexual crime reported in Sunderland Central have more than doubled over the last three years, figures from the www.police.uk website reveal.
The number of “violence and sexual offences” cases reported each month has been rising significantly, peaking at 144 incidents in September of this year.
These figures have been observed for Sunderland Central:
- 1413 incidents were reported between November 2015 and October 2016
- 785 incidents were reported between November 2014 and October 2015
- 562 incidents were reported between November 2013 and October 2014
The worst affected area lies between the The Point and Albion Place, in the heart of the city centre. It remains unseen as to whether the rise in reported cases will have a bearing on Sunderland’s City of Culture 2021 bid.
Sunderland City Council has issued the following statement:
“The City Council works hard with partner agencies in the Safer Sunderland Partnership preventing and tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Any rises in recorded offences can reflect improved recording practises, more victims coming forward, and the majority of crimes are against property, not the person.
“Recorded offences also need to be seen in context of the hundreds and thousands of people who live, work, study, or visit and enjoy central Sunderland for its many events and attractions.
“Nonetheless, the council and the partnership would remind all residents and visitors to report all incidents to help ensure that our city is safe and secure for everyone.”
Northumbria Police did not issue a comment when contacted, but advised consultation of their website instead.
Councillor for Millfield Ward and former Mayor of Sunderland, Cllr. Iain Kay, has assured that there is no need for alarm.
“We have done work with local resident groups and students to encourage crime reporting to the Police,” reasoned Cllr. Kay.
“The local councillors also work with the SU Executive to ensure students are as safe as possible and have access to good advice to be safe out and about in the city centre.
“The Police now focus on more intelligence led actions – budget cuts mean they rely on feedback and info from local people to work out exactly where they need to target criminal activity. Community – Police relations are excellent in Millfield Ward.”