The UK Crime Stats evidence a significant increase in most categories of crime and antisocial behaviour in the six months to June 2018, including drug related crime, assaults and antisocial behaviour. Recently the numbers of reports of muggings, assaults and antisocial behaviour in our local press have increased. We recognise that we are are fortunate to live in one of the safest areas of the country, where historically crime levels have been low. However, reports of police cuts and increases in crime levels result in a feeling of insecurity in our community, particularly amongst the most vulnerable residents.
We believe a contributory factor to the increase in crime is the low level of visible policing in our District. Greater police visibility would not only deter crime but would provide reassurance to our community. We therefore call upon the Police and Crime Commissioner and West Sussex County Council to make community policing a priority and provide the resources needed to ensure that all residents and visitors can feel safe in our town and across our district.