Star comment: Courts are key to cut knife crime

The troubling proliferation of this barbarism is a wider societal issue that needs everybody to take responsibility.

In short, we cannot arrest our way out of the problem. Yes, police officers certainly have a role in preventing knife crime but there are also important roles for the courts, council licensing committees, social services, and those who run pubs, clubs, and major public events.

A licensing hearing by Dudley Council has exposed major concerns about the security arrangements at Chicago’s in Stourbridge where Ryan Passey, aged 24, was stabbed to death.

Quite understandably the family of Mr Passey have expressed anger over the procedures that were and were not in place.

Some may argue that it is easy to point the finger at institutions and public bodies when a tragedy occurs. But in today’s environment there can be no room for complacency.

Recent figures have shown that violent crime is sharply rising and we cannot afford just to sit back and do nothing.

Of course it is a sad indictment that people have to be checked by metal detectors and security guards when on a night out. But that is the reality of the world we are living in.

Particularly in the West Midlands we have seen a knife epidemic over the past couple of years. It is important that pub and club owners take responsibility for the safety of their customers. Many pubs employ doormen and have expensive CCTV systems in place.

It is vital that their checks are thorough and up to standard. CLikewise council licensing officials and decision makers on specialist committees must follow up on any concerns and closely monitor the situation.

Vulnerable locations will be apparent and officials must not be lackadaisical. Social services, too, play an important role of identifying people who may be at risk of offending or potential victims.

We make no excuse for again pinpointing the judiciary. If judges handed down tougher, and longer sentences then this would send out a strong message and act as a major deterrent.

And finally it is the responsibility of every parents to talk to their children about the dangers of knivescarrying these awful horrid weapons. Knife-carrying youngsters will not only destroy the lives of those they stab but risk ruining their own and those around them.