Reports of rape have fallen significantly during the Government’s coronavirus lockdown as calls to 999 are down by 14 percent in comparison to 2019, data shows.
The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) say police forces in England and Wales have seen crime reduce by an overall 28 percent in the four weeks compared to the same period last year.
The data also shows serious assaults and personal robbery have fallen by 27 percent and rape fell by 37 percent. Falls have also been seen in residential burglary, which is down 37 percent.
The most significant reduction is shoplifting, which has seen a fall of 54 percent.
Calls to 999 are down by 14 percent and police have seen a 13 percent drop in 101 calls with 61 percent more people reporting crime online.
Fines for breaches of government public health regulations issued by police officers in England and Wales equate to less than 0.01 per cent of the eligible population in England and Wales – with 3,203 fines issued in England between March 27 and the April 13.
NPCC chair Martin Hewitt, said: “The service across the UK currently has an overall absence rate of ten per cent, covering both officers and staff, and not simply relating to Covid-19.
“With reductions in crime, policing is in a strong, resilient position due to the brilliant commitment of officers and staff and the extra hours of our police volunteers.
“Our message to the public is keep reporting crime to us – we are still here for you and our teams are working round clock to keep you safe.
“To those in danger or at risk, my message is we will come when you call for help.”
