Unfortunately, there has been a recent increase in knife related incidents, and therefore we would like to share the following statement made by one of our Superintendents.

As well as this daily commitment, the force also is committed to being involved in national campaigns and targeted work around the issue. Derbyshire Constabulary has remained one of the forces to actively take part in Operation Sceptre, a twice-yearly focus on knife crime highlighting the work being done in the county to prevent and reduce knife crime, such as weapons sweeps and community visits.

We also want to tell the stories of those involved, and the direct and raw impact that knife crime can have on not only victims and their families, but perpetrators and their loved ones as well.

Superintendent Sarah McAughtrie, who is the operational lead for knife crime and serious violence across Derbyshire, said: “In Derbyshire, teams and partners work together tirelessly to reduce serious violence and knife crime all year round.

“This includes working with local authorities, partners and schools to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime, as well as licensing and looking at measures for nights out at bars, pubs and clubs.

“This work is then put under the spotlight especially during Operation Sceptre, a twice-yearly week of intensification on knife crime which we are absolutely committed to and excited to take part in. It is a great opportunity to get people thinking about these issues and to also promote how we work and how we can help.

“We understand that it is a small minority of people who feel that it is acceptable to carry a knife. However, the consequences can be devastating when they do, and we want people to continue to feel safe when they go out and to understand that carrying a knife brings with it more risk than protection.

“We do also need the public to help us by looking out for each other and telling us if they have concerns about someone who they believe may be considering carrying a weapon or actually doing so.

“We can act on that information to make sure everyone is equipped with the information to make the right decisions, decisions that can have a huge impact on their future.”

If you are concerned or have any information about knife crime in your community please contact us on one of the non-emergency contact methods, familiarly and most commonly known as 101.