Down-turn in Bexhill crime

Inspector Max Moseley's campaign to target specific crimes has led to an overall reduction of 8 per cent so far compared to the same period last year.

Over the past 12 months 2,969 people have been victims of crime in Bexhill. That compares with 3,129 the previous year.

Insp Moseley said: "This is slightly less than the reduction I reported three months ago but it is still excellent news for residents of our sector.

"The downward trend continues because of the dedicated team of police officers and support staff on our sector, combined with continued co-operation from the public.

"Targeting offenders based on intelligence from members of the public is the best way forward in reducing crime. We must take the offenders out of action by arresting them or making it so difficult for them to operate that they give up or move elsewhere.

"I have been tremendously impressed how the climate seems to be changing in Bexhill over the past year and more people are now coming forward to give statements."

He added the drop in crime had been achieved despite staffing problems at the station. PC Danny Ralph and PC Dave Upjohn have been transferred and Insp Mosely is currently in the process of recruiting two more officers.

He said: "This has meant that on occasions the higher visibility in the community that we had hoped to enjoy has been somewhat reduced.

"We have ensured that the general level of service we provide to the community has not reduced significantly however, because other resources have been used to provide cover at Bexhill."