More than 1,000 violent crimes reported in Sandwell

More than 1,000 violent crimes have been reported in Sandwell so far this year, new figures have revealed.

From serious sexual assults, to murders, to woundings attacks took place across the borough between January and May. Of the 1,208 recorded crimes, 327 were in the West Bromwich area plus 357 in Oldbury and Rowley Regis.

Police in West Bromwich have now set up a special team to patrol the town centre during office hours in a bid to crack down on violent crime.

Officers are also planning to visit pubs in the area on a more regular basis so they can learn the names of regular troublemakers and to ensure staff know their responsibilities.

West Bromwich Inspector Akeel Najib said the statisitics did not highlight a spike in violent crime.

"Violent crime is a broad category," he said.

"It will cover attacks and serious assaults but it may also cover minor fights in schools.

"If you compare us with other forces, we're doing quite well. There's a long way to go but we have a plan in place to counter violent crime."

Recent violent offences include an attack on a 52-year-old man, who was targeted by three yobs as he watched a football match at the Gospel Oak Pub in Tipton on June 24.

Superintendent Baz Javid of Sandwell police said the borough was still a safe place to live and that there had been 3,433 fewer victims of crime compared to the same time last year.