Wells has seen a significant decrease in crime, according to the latest statistics for July 2024. Police recorded 61 crimes in the city during the month, a drop from the 83 offences recorded in June.

The most notable reduction was in violent crime, which saw a decline from 39 incidents in June to 25 in July.

Violent crime typically includes offences where people are physically harmed or threatened with harm. While these incidents remain the most common type of crime in Wells, the police are encouraged by the decrease.

Other categories also saw improvements. Cases of burglary, where offenders unlawfully enter a building with the intent to commit a crime, dropped from 7 to 4.

Criminal damage and arson, which involve the destruction or damage to property intentionally, also fell from 7 incidents in June to 4 in July.

There was a notable decrease in theft-related crimes. "Other theft" offences, which cover incidents such as stealing bicycles or other personal items, decreased from 13 in June to 7 in July. Shoplifting, defined as theft from a retail store, saw a slight reduction, with 6 incidents in July compared to 7 in June. One case of vehicle crime, such as car theft or vehicle break-ins, was recorded in July, a drop from two cases in June.

Certain categories of crime, such as public order offences, remained stable. Public order offences include behaviour that causes fear or provokes violence, and there were 6 recorded cases in both June and July.

Anti-social behaviour, which includes activities such as noise complaints or vandalism that disrupt the community, fell slightly, from 7 incidents in June to 5 in July.

Robbery, which involves the use or threat of force to steal from a person, was reported once in June, but there were no recorded cases in July. However, one case of possession of weapons, a category that includes carrying or using knives or firearms, was recorded in July, a reminder of the ongoing work needed to prevent such offences.

A police spokesperson commented on the figures, stating, "While we are pleased to see a reduction in overall crime, particularly in violent offences, we remain vigilant. Our officers will continue working closely with the community to ensure the downward trend continues."

Although crime levels have fallen, police are urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. Local authorities are continuing their efforts to engage with the community, encouraging vigilance to ensure public safety.

Residents can report any concerns to the police by calling 101 or visiting the Wells police station for non-emergency matters.