More offenders are being caught in Cumbria – that was the message from a top cop after figures revealed a rise in drug crimes.

A Freedom of Information request by Newsquest Cumbria has revealed a rise in reported incidents of possession of drugs but other crimes are falling in number.

The figures from Cumbria police revealed the number of reported cases of drug possession had risen from 782 in 2019 to 898 in 2020.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dean Holden from Cumbria Constabulary explained that the rise resulted from more offenders being caught.

He said: “The Constabulary works hard to identify drugs supply and use within the county. The result of pro-active policing activity and dedicated operations means more offenders are being caught, and that is the reason behind the increase in recorded possession crimes.

“Drug-related crime is more far reaching than those directly involved. It negatively affects the whole community. Therefore, all drug-related offences are taken incredibly seriously by the Constabulary.

“The Constabulary also works closely with partner agencies to support those vulnerable people negatively affected by drugs to reduce the demand for the illegal supply of drugs in the county.

“Anyone in need of support for drug addiction for themselves or a friend or loved one should contact victim support on 0800 555 111.”

Despite the rise, the majority of crimes had fallen year on year.

The total number of reported crimes in 2019 was 38,125, a fall by around 5,000 from 33,564.

Burglaries in a dwelling fell from 1,303 to 1,087, while rapes fell from 511 to 534.

There was also a fall in the number of assault crimes – down from 10,117 to 8,686.

DCS Holden added: “Cumbria Constabulary have been rated as outstanding for Crime Data Integrity, which focuses on the accurate recording of crime.

“The HMICFRS inspection resulted in the Constabulary being one of only two forces to receive the highest possible award.

“The force has made substantial progress to report crime more accurately and ensure that victims are at the heart of its crime recording arrangements.

“The reduction in crime is a true representation of the landscape for 2020 against 2019 in Cumbria.”

There was a small rise in the number of murders in Cumbria – from five to seven.

DCS Holden continued: “None of these investigations have unidentified suspects who are at large. Keeping the public safe remains the Constabulary’s main priority and officers work round the clock to bring offenders to justice.”