Keep talking about knife crime with your children, say police
Parents are being encouraged to talk about knife crime with their children as part of a police crackdown.
Staffordshire Police is asking parents and carers to continue having conversations as part of a week of activity in support of its Ditch the Blade campaign.
It comes as the county has seen an overall reduction in knife crime.
Throughout the week, police and partners will highlight the impact of knife crime and share insight into the work being done to tackle the issue. This activity supports the national Operation Sceptre.
Officers will also use intelligence-led deployments, weapons sweeps and high-visibility patrols to target and disrupt offenders who carry and use knives.
Chief Inspector Mark Smith, force lead for knife crime, said: “The underlying reasons why young people feel they need to carry a knife are really complex and mean that this is a problem that cannot be tackled by police alone.
Fear
“Sadly we see a lot of young people carrying, or becoming involved in, incidents where knives are used. Last year 124 young people were victims of knife crimes and 110 young people committed a crime whilst carrying a knife.
“The fact is, carrying a weapon increases the chances of becoming a victim of knife crime – we need young people to know that the majority don’t carry.
"But we know media reports and things they see on social media increase young people’s fear, which leads them to think they are better protected by carrying.”
The fight against knife crime is driven through the Serious Violence Board, which launched a multi-agency agreement in July this year.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, Matthew Ellis, said: “Tackling violence that happens in our society must be a priority. For some people, carrying a knife or other weapon is sadly the norm and often results in tragedy for themselves and others.
“The best way of preventing crime and having a positive impact on communities is to stop problems arising in the first place. It is essential we intervene early to help those who are experiencing problems, supporting them to address the issues they face."
