Murder rate lowest for nearly 30 years

The homicide rate in England and Wales fell by 14% during 2011-2012

The figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show the number of murders committed is at its lowest level since 1983.

The drop was part of an overall reduction in recorded crime, which the 2011-2012 crime survey for England and Wales showed to be down by 4%. Violent crime in general was down 7%, while more specifically robberies were down 2%, knife crime by 5% and gun crime by 16%. There was also a fall in incidences of antisocial behaviour.

There was however, a 2% rise in property crimes including pickpocketing and theft of unattended wallets and mobile phones, as well as thefts from garden sheds and of commercial materials such as metal.

John Flatley, head of crime statistics at ONS suggested that the falling murder rates were due to a long-term decrease in domestic violence, which has dropped 40% since 1995. “More than two thirds of homicides are committed by partners, expartners or other family members, and that’s what’s driving the overall change,” he said.

The figures proved contrary to suggestions that the economic recession would lead to an increase in crime.

You’re the solution that Positive News needs

Our small, dedicated team is passionate about building a better alternative to the negative news media. And there’s never been a greater urgency to our mission. 

To invest in producing all the solutions journalism that the world is longing for, we need funding. We’re asking readers like you to get behind us by making a regular or one-off contribution as a Positive News supporter. Please back our team today and, together, we’ll change the news for good.