Mixed Results In Crime Stats

The latest crime statistics in Wolverhampton North East show that out of the seven police beats, four of the areas patrolled have seen an increase in crime reported and three have seen a decrease.

Councillor Phil Bateman said "The latest crime statistics in Wolverhampton North East show that out of the seven police beats, four of the areas patrolled have seen an increase in crime reported and three have seen a decrease.

The largest of the police beats is Wednesfield, which includes Wednesfield North districts of Wyvern Park, Broad Lane, Linthouse Lane and Wood End. This shows a -7% decrease in the latest statistics. New Cross crime is down at -11% and Low Hill at -1% .

However Ashmore Parkand Coppice Farm police beat is up +4%, Bushbury +6%, Bushbury North +8% with Heath Park showing the largest rise at+9%.

The West Midlands Force overall are reporting a drop in Crime of -6%.

Councillor Phil Bateman said " When looking at the latest statistics there is a mixed message coming through about activity in the North East of the City. The overall situation is one that I find is very depressing. The drop in recorded crime in New Cross will be well received. But the statistics for Ashmore Park and Coppice\Farm continue to give me concerns, as we know the statistics are slued by the petty vandalism that has been taking place which is then recorded as criminal damage.

The information to my constituents is disturbing in the sense that the Wednesfield North Ward is very much divided by these statistics, all of us have a duty to try and reduce and prevent crime taking place. But we also provide resources to the police to both protect and serve the community. Its right that the community constantly examines and debates both the success and performance of the police. I do not think that the City Council even with the structures that are in place currently, give enough time to debating the situations in the City. I shall be attending the next City Council scrutiny committee with regards to Safer Communities."