Archive - Thursday, 18 July 2002


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Crime rate up by 34%

BARRY'S crime rate has risen by more than a third in the last quarter, according to shock new figures.

But police claim there is no cause for alarm, and blame new reporting procedures for the increase.

Officers at Barry admit there is 34 percent rise in crime in the Vale of Glamorgan, but stress this is below the force average of 42 percent.

Acting Sgt Lisa Thompson said: "Indications for the first quarter of 2002, which runs from April to June, show an increase in reported crime.

"This is largely to do with the new recording procedures the government have brought in throughout Britain, to bring all the forces in line."

She also reassured locals that violent crime is still a rarity.

Sgt Thompson said: "While media attention has focused on the recent drug-related death, the alleged rape and alleged murder, all three crimes have been detected, and those thought to be responsible were known to the victims.

"Violent crimes like murder, manslaughter, grievous and actual bodily harm, common assault and harassment only account for 0.03 percent of recorded crime in the Vale."