CRIME levels in Huntingdonshire are at their lowest for almost a decade, according to the latest statistics. Cambridgeshire police said crime in Huntingdonshire and the Fens had dropped by over six per cent – the equivalent of 1,219 fewer reported crimes

CRIME levels in Huntingdonshire are at their lowest for almost a decade, according to the latest statistics.

Cambridgeshire police said crime in Huntingdonshire and the Fens had dropped by over six per cent - the equivalent of 1,219 fewer reported crimes compared with last year.

Chief Superintendent David Hankins, central divisional commander, said the results also showed detection rates had increased. The figures, which cover March 2005 to April 2006, showed detection rates had risen from 19 per cent to 26.5 per cent - 102 more detected offences.

"I am delighted that crime has fallen again this year and that detection rates have increased - a tribute to the hard work and commitment of police officers, police staff and our partners across Huntingdonshire and Fenland.

"The results for vehicle crime are particularly pleasing, as we have concentrated efforts in this area over the past year.

"We are certainly moving in the right direction, but will not become complacent about our performance. There are still improvements to be made in getting drugs off our streets and tackling anti-social behaviour and disorder."

While the majority of reported crime was down, there was a slight rise in drug offences and assaults on police officers increased from 83 to 119. Robbery was also up by 38.6 per cent from 57 to 79 offences.

Chief Superintendent Hankins added that, with the help of communities, the good results should continue.

"We are implementing a new policing structure, placing policing at the heart of communities. These neighbourhood policing teams will work closely with residents and partnership agencies to ensure the best possible service is provided," he said.

"We want to hear more from the communities we serve about the problems affecting them so we can decide how best to combat them. We are committed to reducing crime and the fear of crime and to making a real difference to the lives of people living and working in Huntingdonshire and Fenland."

CRIME FIGURES FOR

HUNTINGDONSHIRE

March 2005 - April 2006

Total crime down 6.6%

(18,508 to 17,289)

Violent crime down 17.1%

(3,892 to 3,225)

Domestic burglary down 0.1% (706 to 705)

Vehicle crime down 7.1%

(2,228 to 2,069)

Arson down 26.9% (253 to 185)

Drug offences up 8.2%

(233 to 252)

Theft down 12.6%

(1,798 to 1,571)

Assaults on police up 43.4%

(83 to 119)