Less crime in lockdown leads to 19% reduction overall compared to 2019

A report published by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) found that crime in Greater Manchester had fallen overall by 19% when compared to the total, in the same period (January to June), in 2019.

The report also highlighted that Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has seen:

A 28% reduction in robbery  

A 19% reduction in victim-based crime

A 14% reduction in rape offences

Overall crime in 2020 was at its lowest monthly volume in April with 17,079 crimes recorded 

GMP's Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes said: "The findings of this report are encouraging.

"Our priority as a force is to keep the people of Greater Manchester safe. 

"The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging time for many people, businesses and sectors - including policing.

"We initially saw a decrease in crime during the start of lockdown, earlier this year, particularly in relation to robbery and burglary with the majority of people spending long periods of time at home.

"Since the easing of restrictions was announced, we are seeing crime return to levels more in line with pre-COVID norms.

"In addition to the normal levels of crime that we are experiencing, we now have the additional pressures from COVID and those individuals breaching legislation.

"We know that the nature and complexity of crime is continuously changing and we work closely with partners and engage with the local community to ensure that we are delivering the highest standards of policing possible with the resources available.

"This includes the recent launch of our new Neighbourhood Policing Strategy, which outlines our commitment to further strengthening our relationship with the people of Greater Manchester and identifying early intervention opportunities in order to reduce crime. 

"I am proud of our GMP staff, officers and volunteers for doing their upmost to continue to provide the best service we can to the people of Greater Manchester and keep our communities safe."

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