VIOLENT crime in Suffolk has risen 5% in the past six months - despite a drop in offences overall. Police admit they are “disappointed” by the performance but put the increase down to the summer and “unique” factors such as the World Cup, when traditionally more alcohol is consumed.

By Danielle Nuttall

VIOLENT crime in Suffolk has risen 5% in the past six months - despite a drop in offences overall.

Police admit they are “disappointed” by the performance but put the increase down to the summer and “unique” factors such as the World Cup, when traditionally more alcohol is consumed.

The force recorded 292 more violent offences during the first six months of this financial year compared to the previous year - up from 5,802 to 6,094.

There was also a 4.2% increase in 'more serious' offences of violence in a public place, from 2,119 in the first six months of last year to 2,209 this.

But overall crime fell from 27,115 to 26,781 (-1.2%) during the period.

The force also saw a 15.2% drop - 170 offences - in domestic burglary, which it described as particularly pleasing given at the same period last year, this type of offence had risen 7.9%.

The figures were released in a six-month performance report, due to be discussed by members of Suffolk Police Authority on Friday.

Deputy Chief Constable Colin Langham-Fitt said last night: “It is pleasing to see that overall crime rates are continuing to fall in Suffolk.

“While the slight rise in violent crime is disappointing, there were a number of unique factors including the World Cup that may have influenced this.

“We are continuing to actively monitor the effect of extended drinking hours on this issue.

“The drop in crime means that people in Suffolk are even safer. The significant decrease in the number of domestic burglaries, a key priority for the constabulary, from an already low base, is particularly gratifying.”

The performance report shows Suffolk Constabulary has increased the number of burglary cases it solves from 14.3% to 19.9%. This is as a result of targeting prolific offenders, it says.

The force has also slowed the increase in vehicle crime. The report said: “The increases earlier in the year were generally as a result of on-going problems with local youths in the east of the county, and the American service personnel were targeted in the west.

“However, dedicated crime-prevention operations across the county have resulted in a significant reduction in vehicle crime offences.”