Knife crime week of action in Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire Police will be joining colleagues from across the UK to highlight the issues of knife crime this week.

Throughout the week officers will be engaging with local communities, including young people, carrying out test purchases with retailers and taking part in targeted enforcement activity on those believed to be involved in this type of crime.

Tackling serious violence, including knife crime, is a priority for Northamptonshire Police and although the county has seen reductions in knife crime in recent years, the Force is committed to seeing further reductions.

Prevention and Intervention Chief Inspector Oliver Charter, is leading the week’s activity. He said: “Tackling knife crime is an on-going mission for us but this week allows us to really focus on the many different routes we have available to do this.

“We cannot arrest our way out of knife crime, so it’s important that we come together with partners and our communities to educate, engage and enforce on the issue.

“This week our Neighbourhood Policing Teams will be out and about in the communities they serve, visiting schools, youth clubs, conducting hotspot patrols and holding knife amnesties.

“In addition, our Youth Violence Intervention Unit (YVIU), will also be conducting visits with young people who have been highlighted as being at risk of becoming involved in violence offences. This team exists to offer support to those who may be at risk, and offer a wide range of support and interventions to help people back on track”

Nationally a lot of work is taking place to tackle knife crime, with fines announced for tech companies around the advertising and glorification of illegal knives, while also tackling the sales of items to under 18s.

Last year new laws banning ‘zombie style’ knives were introduced and this summer there will be a surrender scheme for ninja swords ahead of them also becoming illegal to own.

Chief Inspector Charter added: “We know that working with partners is key in reducing knife crime, policing cannot do this alone.

“We will also be working closely with our partners from the Northamptonshire Violence Prevention Partnership, including our local councils and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to deliver activities with children at risk of becoming embroiled in violence offences.

“I also urge anyone who has any information about knife crime, or concerns about someone who may be carrying a weapon, to contact us or Crimestoppers anonymously. We can offer support and advice to you. More information is available at northants.police.uk/knifecrime.”