The Metropolitan Police today published the latest half yearly crime figures for the capital which show a clear reduction in robbery, violence and hate crime.
According to the Met overall crime in London is at a ten year low while the number of crimes where an offender is charged, cautioned or receives another penalty has reached its highest level since 1998.
The figures, which cover April to September show overall crime has reduced by 6.1%, which equates to 28,000 fewer offences compared to the same period in 2006.
The percentage of crimes resulting in the offenders being charged, cautioned or receiving another penalty has also risen with the ‘sanctioned detection’ rate now reaching Metropolitan Police Authority target of 24% (compared to 19.7% last year).
Met Police Commissioner Sir Ian Blair said the figures suggested "2007/08 is on course to be the fifth consecutive year overall crime has fallen which is clear evidence that London is getting safer."
Sir Ian also said he was "pleased particular progress has been made on tackling robbery, violence and hate crime against a backdrop of unprecedented challenges facing the MPS."
"However, we share Londoners’ concerns around the serious violence affecting young people and will continue to work tirelessly to remove offensive weapons from our streets by ensuring those who carry them are brought to justice."
Len Duvall, chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority which oversees policing in the capital, said the fall in crime was "good news for Londoners" adding that "the MPA congratulates the Met and we will continue to monitor progress to ensure the service gets better year on year."
Today’s figures were also welcomed by Mayor of London Ken Livingstone who said "these are very welcome figures showing real reductions in crime figures, helping to make London safer. After decades of falling police numbers, London has turned the corner."
"The Met now has record numbers of police, and dedicated police teams located in every single neighbourhood in the city. This is the level of protection and reassurance our communities have demanded and need."
"The Met face unique challenges in policing a major capital city and I am sure they will continue to fight to make our streets and communities safe for all."
