“Significant reductions in crime” over festive period

Tuesday 05 January 2021

Police say there were “significant reductions” in crime and call-outs over the festive period, and that they had no need to use enforcement powers against covid rulebreakers.

Under current legal restrictions, islanders must not gather in groups of more than 10 people and must maintain 2m physical distancing.

However, there had been some concerns that these rules would be flouted over Christmas and the New Year – despite the Government’s strong advice not to mix indoors with other households aside from on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

But islanders needn’t have worried, according to Police Chief Robin Smith.

“Festive periods are often one of our busiest times of the year, however, this year for obvious reasons has been like no other, with significant reductions in crime and routine calls for service,” he said.

Pictured: Physical distancing and not gathering in groups of more than 10 are legal requirements.

“Recorded crime for December was down 54% compared with last year, not an unexpected statistic given the current circumstances. This has allowed us to focus on increasing our visibility alongside the Honorary Police to provide greater reassurance to our communities.

“Reports of covid-related matters have thankfully been minimal. Officers offered advice and guidance where necessary, but have not needed to use enforcement powers as individuals have quickly complied with the restrictions.”

He continued: “We were enormously grateful to islanders over the festive period and in particular their response to ‘staying home’ this New Year’s Eve. While we did have some issues to deal with, these were relatively minor. It is clear the vast majority of islanders have followed the Government’s advice to stay at home in the interests of keeping people safe.

“We are also thankful to partners who we have worked with, not only over New Year, but also over the whole festive period.” 

Pictured: Covid compliance was good over Christmas and New Year, the Police Chief said, and no arrests were made in relation to rule breaches.

While the Chief was positive about how the festive period went, he warned against complacency, adding: “As we come into a new year, we must be mindful that covid is still very much with us and we urge islanders to continue working together to keep everyone safe.” 

Head of the Comité des Chefs de Police and St. Helier Centenier Danny Scaife also extended gratitude to islanders for being sensible on behalf of the Honorary Police.

“We realise that it’s been a difficult year, especially with tighter restrictions in place over Christmas, but on the whole, the Government guidance has been followed and we thank those for doing their bit to keep others safe.”