Targeted action to be expanded in Sussex knife crime ‘hotspots’
Sussex Police says ‘targeted action’ is to be expanded in knife crime hotspots across the county.
A Sussex Police spokesperson said the county has been awarded nearly £600,000 from a new Home Office fund to target and reduce knife crime in four local areas.
The focus will be in areas that have shown the highest knife crime concentration which includes Eastbourne town centre as well as two areas in Brighton and one in Crawley.
Action may include increased patrols, CCTV cameras and Live Facial Recognition, depending on the needs within the area.
Sussex Police is also launching a campaign urging young people to think before they carry a knife.
They will be urged to contact the charity Fearless, part of Crimestoppers, to anonymously report information on knife carriers.
Chief Inspector Jim Loader, lead for serious violence and knife crime, said: “We have worked hard over the last two years to reduce knife crime across Sussex, but the tragic events in Brighton over the weekend show just one incident can have devastating consequences.
“Every time someone chooses to carry a knife, they are putting themselves and others in danger. That is why schemes such as the Knife Crime Concentration Fund are so important.
“Public place crime involving a knife has fallen by 24% over the last year, but we must build on this.
“We will now analyse the mapped data to understand why there is a concentration of knife crime in some specific streets and areas.
“By coordinating action with local partners, we will address the underlying causes to help keep communities safe.
“Once we understand the causes, the funding will go towards taking intense, problem-solving action to address the issues and reduce the criminality in the long term.
“Our priority is to keep people safe and feeling safe.”
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “Over the past two years, I’ve been encouraged by the consistent efforts by Sussex Police and partners to tackle knife crime across the county.
“Hotspot policing patrols have already delivered clear and measurable results, playing a vital role in reducing crime while providing residents with a strong, visible police presence.
“This proactive approach has sent a clear message that criminal activity will not be tolerated and acts as a powerful deterrent.”