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Wrexham crime rates dropping thanks to new policing schemes

Wrexham crime rates dropping thanks to new policing schemes

Leader Live09-07-2025
North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin was told during a visit to the city that new policing schemes are making a positive impact on public safety and crime reduction.
Mr Dunbobbin said: "Wrexham is a city on the up, with the success of its football club mirrored in the feeling of increased confidence there is in the city and its future.
"Policing is a crucial part of ensuring that residents and visitors alike feel safe and secure in the city, whether they are shopping, savouring the vibrant nightlife, watching a match or just simply enjoying living in Wrexham.
"I am pleased to hear of the work underway by District Inspector Ifans and his team and the positive effect this is having on crime in the city.
"I am also heartened by, and grateful for, the increased funding invested by the UK Government as part of the Safer Streets Summer Initiative.
"It is right they recognise the importance of an adequately funded Force in reducing rates of offending.
"I hope it will make a real difference for our communities."
District Inspector Rhodri Ifans and PCC Andy Dunbobbin (Image: PCC)
During his July 3 visit, Mr Dunbobbin toured the city centre with the neighbourhood policing team, including Deputy PCC Wayne Jones and District Inspector Rhodri Ifans.
They visited key locations including the bus station, Duke Street, Hope Street, Central Arcade, and the High Street.
Inspector Ifans outlined new crime reduction schemes, including Operation Restore, which launched in April with targeted patrols in areas with higher offence rates.
Efforts to prevent anti-social behaviour include supporting youth clubs and seconding a PCSO to the Youth Justice Service (YJS).
Wrexham YJS works to prevent children from getting involved in crime and anti-social behaviour.
The visit coincided with the UK Government's Safer Streets Summer Initiative, which runs until the end of September.
It is backed by £66 million in hotspot policing funding and aims to deliver visible, community-led policing.
A key focus in Wrexham is tackling shoplifting and improving business security.
Inspector Ifans reported a 21 per cent reduction in recorded shoplifting over the past year.
A dedicated team of one sergeant, four PCs, and two PCSOs focuses on this crime type.
Recently, a prolific offender was jailed for 36 weeks after admitting five counts of shop theft.
Following the walkabout, Mr Dunbobbin and Inspector Ifans held a public surgery at Wrexham Library.
Residents raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in surrounding areas, including Acrefair and Bangor-on-Dee.
Inspector Ifans said: "North Wales Police continue to strengthen their commitment to community-focused policing in Wrexham, with new initiatives aimed at building trust, increasing visibility, and tackling local concerns head-on.
"We have stepped up efforts to tackle ASB in Wrexham, responding to growing concerns from residents and local businesses.
"Targeted patrols, partnership work, and early intervention strategies are already delivering results in key areas of the town."
READ MORE:
Butchers celebrates first-year in business in bustling North Wales town
He said the Neighbourhood Policing Team is working closely with Wrexham Council, youth outreach teams, and community groups to address issues such as street-level disturbances, vandalism, and drug misuse.
Mr Dunbobbin said the approach supports the goals in his Police and Crime Plan for North Wales.
He said these include maintaining a strong neighbourhood policing presence and supporting victims, businesses, and communities.
Residents are encouraged to report crime via North Wales Police's LiveChat service online or by calling 101.
Crimes can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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