Crime data from Wells reveals a mixed picture, with reductions in some categories and increases in others, underscoring the complex challenges for local law enforcement.

The latest crime statistics for Wells City for May and June 2023 indicate a varying landscape, characterised by both increases and decreases across different types of offences.

In June, 100 crimes were recorded in Wells, down from 119 in May. However, the details within those overall numbers merit closer examination.

In the anti-social behaviour category, which includes acts like vandalism and public drunkenness, there were 15 reported cases in June, down from 22 in May. Violent crime, which covers a range of acts from minor assaults to more serious offences, also reduced from 48 reported cases in May to 28 in June. There were seven reported public order offences, such as affray or disorderly conduct, in June, compared to 14 in May.

Meanwhile, other categories saw an uptick in June. Criminal damage and arson, activities that involve the destruction of property or setting fires, increased from six reported incidents in May to 16 in June. Shoplifting cases increased from 14 in May to 19 in June, while burglary went from four to five reported cases. Other theft, which encompasses stealing that doesn't fit into other categories, went down from seven cases in May to four in June.

Vehicle crime, which includes theft of or from vehicles, saw a rise from one case in May to three in June. Robbery stayed constant with one reported case in both months. Two other crimes, a category that captures less common offences, were reported in June, compared to none in May.

May's figures also included a single reported bicycle theft and one drug-related crime, categories that didn't appear in the June report.

In response to the data, a police spokesman said, "The crime figures for May and June reflect ongoing challenges in maintaining public safety across different categories of crime. We are examining these statistics closely to inform our future policing strategy."