Crime Statistics Are Concerning

The news on the poor detection record for crime and the rise in crime incidents in Wednesfield will not be viewed with any sense of satisfaction by residents living in the constituency.

Councillor Phil Bateman said today " there is going to be a sense of concern amongst my constituents as they read the 'express and star' article on crime and crime detection in last nights edition of the paper.

Whilst we all have a duty to do as much as we can to help the police and reduce crime. The low level of detection will sap confidence and will add anxiety to some residents.

Whilst the whole story on crime in this part of the city has probably yet to be fully explained the fact of the matter is that we do expect more from our police service.

When I speak with residents and business there is always a willingness to help the police. But in return we expect the police to be able to detect and arrest larger numbers of those responsible for crime, than apparently is the case at the moment.

West Midlands Police are currently well resourced and the targets that they have placed on them whilst tough are indeed achievable for a top rated force. I know that the statistics published yesterday and the comments being made will 'sting' the force leadership, but I do not see it as being unreasonable to expect high standards of detection and a greater protection of our communities."