Although 2011 may prove problematic for Lancashire Police, with cuts to their budget on the cards, falling crime levels, an excellent rating from HMIC and national recognition for public protection work, are just some of the successes highlighted in the Lancashire Constabulary Chief Constable’s 2009-2010 Annual Report.
The 12-page report, published this month, outlines Lancashire Constabulary’s performance over the past year, along with its plans for the year ahead.
It details progress in a number of key areas, including public protection, serious and organised crime and road policing; and points to the fact that Lancashire Constabulary is one of the strongest performing forces in England and Wales.
In his introduction, Chief Constable Steve Finnigan writes, “I am immensely proud to report that we have once again delivered extremely positive performance over the past twelve months.
“I am pleased to be able to report that, in 2009//10, overall crime fell by 8.7 per cent when compared to the previous year; that is equivalent to 10,000 fewer victims of crime.
“This is the fifth successive year that crime has fallen, and in some categories, such as burglary and auto crime, levels have been reduced to those not experienced since the 1970’s.”
He pays tribute to partner agencies, Lancashire Police Authority and staff for their hard work and dedication, and in reference to the challenges ahead, says the Constabulary will meet and tackle these head on.
“I am determined to ensure that we do not become complacent about our achievements,” Mr Finnigan conclude, “but continue to strive towards achieving our ambition of consistently being the best police force in the country and, indeed, to secure the safety and confidence of those who live, visit and work in Lancashire.”
• A full copy of the report can we found at www.lancashire.police.uk