Annual report 2023-24

Overall, recorded crime levels in the past year (2023-24) increased by four per cent (despite a generally decreasing trend over the long term). This increase has been driven by an increase in crimes of dishonesty, which comprised over a third of overall crimes. Crimes in this group increased by seven per cent (a figure particularly affected by an increase in shoplifting, a high-volume category that is up by 35% from last year). However, it is important to note that volume of crime is not the only factor that affects the level of resources required, since some of the lower volume crimes may require more complex investigation.

Recorded crime figures also show that violent crime has increased, driven by a higher level of common assaults (an increase of three per cent).

There has been an increase in assaults on police officers and police staff. Although this may be due to an increase in recording, giving a more accurate picture, this nevertheless highlights the challenges that officers and staff face day-to-day. The number of complaints against the police in 2023-24 increased by five per cent compared with the previous year and by eight per cent compared with the five-year average, although the percentage of closed allegations upheld has decreased compared with the previous year.

In addition to those issues reported to the police, there are some crimes that tend to reflect proactive policing (for example where crimes come to light based on patrols or other proactive initiatives). Crimes of weapons possession have increased by 17% over the past year, and drugs supply crimes have increased over the same period, although the long term trend for this is decreasing. It can be particularly challenging to find capacity for these issues in times where resources are stretched.