Violent crime campaign launched

4:56pm Thursday 27th November 2008

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CUMBRIA Police have launched a campaign to raise awareness about the long lasting effects of violent crime.

Violence Scars 4 Life focuses on the traumatic and distressing effects violent crime can have on victims and communities.

Nearly one quarter of crime reported in Cumbria is violence related - including robbery, domestic abuse and sexual offences - and the police are keen to reduce these statistics.

Assistant Chief Constable Graham Sunderland said violent crime has fallen by almost 7 per cent in South Cumbria this year as officers work to reduce incidents through early intervention and targeted, intelligence-led policing.

“Reducing violent crime is one of our top priorities due to the devastating effects incidents can have on victims, their families and local communities,” he said.

“As a result, we have helped reduce violent crime countywide by eleven per cent this year. We are proud of this success but recognise that there is still more work to be done.

“Nearly half of all violent incidents are alcohol related so we are asking everyone to examine their drinking behaviour and ensure they keep hold of their senses at all times.”

Ass Chief Constable Sunderland pointed out that violent incidents carry weighty prison sentences.

“Violent behaviour of any form undermines public confidence and this is unacceptable. Cumbria is one of the safest places to live, work and visit and we need to work together to make sure it stays that way.”

Posters and beer mats spreading the Violence Scars 4 Life message have been distributed across pubs, clubs and community spaces across the county.