Inspector addresses concerns about crime in Ilfracombe

Local discussions about shop theft and anti-social behaviour in Ilfracombe have prompted Devon & Cornwall Police to address misinformation about the safety of the seaside town.

In a recent letter sent to the Commissioner, councillors raised concerns about shoplifting, street violence and intimidation in the popular seaside town.

As a result, a series of articles have been circulating online, suggesting that Ilfracombe is an unsafe place to live or visit, causing concern for people living in and planning to visit the area.

Inspector Joey Lester leads teams in South Molton, Lynton, Ilfracombe and Braunton. She said “We recognise that recent online commentary may have raised concerns within our community and amongst people planning to visit the town over the summer months.

“It is important to balance individual incidents and online commentary with the data, and I want to stress that Ilfracombe remains a safe and welcoming place to live, work and visit.

“Over the last week, officers in Ilfracombe have arrested two young people and will be making additional arrests in relation to criminal damage offences, assaults and theft. Final written warnings have also been issued to four individuals causing persistent anti-social behaviour issues in the town and the team are working closely with North Devon Council and Ilfracombe College to put prevention measures in place.

“The latest available data shows positive progress in the town, with violence and sexual offences in Ilfracombe reducing by around 6% in the past year.

“Longer-term trends are also reassuring, with data indicating that overall crime in parts of Ilfracombe has fallen by more than 50% over the past decade.

“These figures demonstrate that targeted policing and strong partnership working are making a difference locally and I hope this provides some reassurance to anyone who may have been affected by the recent publications.”

The Ilfracombe Neighbourhood team are committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour and their efforts were demonstrated earlier this month when a prolific offender was arrested after causing persistent disruption in the town.

For the full article please see the Devon & Cornwall Police website here.