12.01.2005 : Community and Adult Scrutiny Committee

Speaking before the Community and Adult Scrutiny Committee this afternoon, Jayne Cowan stated :

"I was most concerned to read the information contained in the Cardiff Community Safety Audit, Consultation Document. 

Recent data has shown that between 2001 and 2004, violent crime has increased by a massive 38.6%.  The South Wales Police, however, have experienced an even bigger increase in this period, which makes for very grim reading.  More police are needed on the beat, and resources must be made available to allow ordinary Members of the Public to continue with their daily lives knowing that they will be safe on our streets and in their homes."

"Many other crime related issues are also of great concern.  Theft from motor vehicle has increased by 28.6%, which must make Cardiff one of the most vulnerable places to live in Wales.  More must be done to protect the people who live and work in the City.  With rumoured high levels of Council Tax increases this year, coupled with rebanding, this data surely rubs salt into wounds".

"Cardiff Council's Community Safety Officers are doing a sterling job, but more support must be given to them and the police, in order for them to carry out their duties as fully as possible."

ADDITIONAL KEY DATA

Domestic burglary has increased by 19% between 2001 and 2004.

Overall vehicle crime in Cardiff increased by 14.5% between 2001 and 2004.

Thefts from motor vehicles has increased by 28.6% in the same time period.

Period Criminal damage in Cardiff has increased by 11.6% in the same time period.

In Cardiff, the arrests for possession of Category A drugs reduced by 44.7% between 2001 and 2004, and heroin seizures reduced slightly in this time period.