23 March 2009

PRESS RELEASE

Although statistics for domestic burglaries in North Down have decreased we must address the human side of policing - Cree

Ulster Unionist MLA for North Down and Policing Board member Leslie Cree is calling on the Chief Constable to remind his officers of the impact of domestic burglaries on victims. Mr. Cree has stressed the need for victims of burglary to be informed of any developments in their case whether that is that the offender has been caught or their property retrieved. The most recent PSNI crime statistics have shown a 5.8% jump in domestic burglaries across Northern Ireland compared with the same period last year.

However, the statistics for North Down offer some reassurance. The most recent statistics show that in the period April 2008 to January 2009 there were 183 domestic burglaries in North Down, a decrease of 11.2% looking at the same period last year.

The Policing Board member said, "The PSNI must improve its communication with the victims of crime. A lot of victims complain that once they have given a statement the communication they receive from the PSNI is sporadic and ineffectual. There would also appear to be a lack of information about what is done to locate a victim’s property. The police need to increase awareness of any option available to victims to retrieve their property. The need for concerted action comes in light of the recent spate of domestic burglaries.

"Many victims feel overlooked or side-lined during the investigation and many are disappointed that they never hear anything further about their possessions. The PSNI must show its human side when dealing with the victims of crime. Many possessions such as jewellery which are stolen by criminals often have sentimental value. It is vital that the PSNI recognise that even the most inexpensive items can have tremendous sentimental value. It is obvious that how you treat the victims of crime has a direct impact on community confidence and support.

"It is clear that the police service needs to improve communication with the victims of crime. I will be asking the Chief Constable to outline how the PSNI communicates with victims of burglary or theft and what happens when stolen goods are retrieved. I would also call upon the PSNI to be more innovative in how it communicates with victims."

Ends

Notes to Editor
The most recent stats for Domestic Burglary for North Down:
In the period April – Jan 07/08 there were206 burglaries
In the period April – Jan 08/09 there were 183 burglaries
This represents a decrease of 11.2%