Crime Down in West Teignmouth

From the Herald Express: July 30, 2012 TEIGNMOUTH police officers have been praised for helping to drive down crime. Community leaders said Teignmouth police beat manager PC Phil Colley and his team were doing a 'great job' in working to reduce offences, in particular anti-social behaviour and criminal damage.

Up-to-date statistics show incidents of anti-social behaviour went down in May to 39 offences, compared to 41 the month before. All recorded crime for May stood at 96, compared to 110 last May. Police say one of their biggest successes has been in the ward of west Teignmouth, a traditionally deprived area vulnerable to crime. Between 2008 and 2011, criminal damage dropped by almost half and anti-social behaviour dropped by more than two thirds, police said. PC Colley puts the successes down to teamwork with other agencies including councillor David Cox, Teign Housing, KRA - Kingsway Residents' Association and local businesses. He also said building strong relationships with local people was key. PC Colley said: "I am delighted about the positive results we have achieved. "These latest statistics speak for themselves. The dramatic reduction in anti-social behaviour is testament to all the hard work that has been carried out." Cllr Cox said: "Anti-social behaviour and criminal damage are the issues that most affect people's quality of life, so it's really great to see the impact the team has made, reflected in the figures. "However, the figures are not the whole story. I cannot speak highly enough on their dedication to the community they serve; as I'm sure many residents will testify."