Topic of the Month – Knife Crime

Topic of the Month – Knife Crime

Considering the recent stabbings incident that have been in the news, our new topic of the month is “Knife Crime” and  links have been included to Various Resources detailing the law regarding possession of knives and what to do if you have any information about knife carriers.

WHAT IS KNIFE CRIME?

KNIFE CRIME is ANY crime that involves a bladed, pointed, or sharp instrument that could potentially cause harm. This is not just limited to knives and can include blades, knives, glass, needles, and any other material or implement that has been styled, shaped, or manipulated to meet the definition.  Knife crime can range from the threat,or potential threat of violence, where someone is carrying a sharp or bladed instrument to someone who has received an injury as a result of that instrument.

WHY DO PEOPLE CARRY KNIVES?

Although there are many reasons why people feel to need to carry a knife, most claim it is for protection or self-defence. Despite this, evidence shows that those who carry a knife are more likely to become a victim of knife crime rather that it being a deterrent in the event of an attack.

Despite the belief that fear drives the need to carry knives, experts argue that the increase in young people carrying knives could potentially lead to a rise in knife crime, since the likelihood of them being used could see the number of violent incidents increase.

WHAT ARE THE POLICE DOING ABOUT IT?

To boost public confidence and to reduce knife crime in the region, Merseyside Police are working extremely close with various agencies throughout the region to both reinforce the law and to tackle the problem through education and awareness.

LATEST CRIME DATA

Latest crime data from the Office of National Statistics reveals Merseyside Police recorded 945 serious crimes involving knifes during the last year.

This is 18% on the previous year, which saw 801 knife crimes recorded, and the highest total on record figures going back to 2008/09.


MERSEYSIDE POLICE

WEB: www.merseyside.police.uk

PHONE: 0151 709 6010


CHILDLINE KNIFE CRIME

WEB: www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/bullying-abuse-safety/crime-law/gun-knife-crime/


OUR MERSEYSIDE

WEB: www.ourmerseyside.org/

 

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