PCC urges people to hand in knives to curb the knife crime epidemic

The Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, is calling on communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to come together and stand up against knife crime.

The PCC joined police officers from the Violent Crime Taskforce (VCT) in Portsmouth this week as part of Operation Sceptre – the national week of action to clamp down on knife crime.

PCC Donna Jones said: “It’s imperative that knives are taken off the streets. It’s only by doing this can we can prevent stabbings, serious violence and murders. Operation Sceptre is an intensified campaign which includes knife surrender bins located in police stations around the two counties. These are available for anyone who wants to dispose of a knife or a weapon with no questions asked.

“We know that teenage boys and young men are the most at risk category of being stabbed and robbed at knife-point in our communities. It’s heart-breaking that many young people start carrying a knife and join a gang, because they don’t feel safe.”

“We must all do everything in our power to stop the scourge of knife crime, to prevent more lives being lost and more families being torn apart.

“Early intervention including tackling the root causes are pivotal to bring about change in our society. These changes must be addressed in conjunction with the positive action being taken out on the streets and in our communities by local authorities, charities, schools and other partners.”

The PCC’s Violence Reduction Unit is working closely with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary this week as partners from across the two counties join forces and intensify their actions to combat knife crime.

The Commissioner introduced the VCT 18 months ago. Eleven dedicated police officers, a Sergeant and an Inspector make up the Task Force which is focused on reducing serious violence.

PCC Donna Jones commented: “I’m committed to making sure knives and dangerous weapons are taken off the streets to protect families, businesses and neighbourhoods. Educating parents about the risks of gang culture, particularly with 12 to 18 year-olds, is an ongoing focus for me. More needs to be done with this group and schools are a key part of this.”

This week, the Home Office also announced a £4M funding boost to tackle knife crime. With a focus on new technologies, the plans include investment in systems that can detect knives carried from a distance.