Local teams out in force to tackle knife-related crime

Local policing teams across Staffordshire will be supporting the national campaign to tackle knife-related crime, Sceptre, to build upon the work we carry out all year round to keep our communities safe.

Our own knife crime campaign, Ditch the Blade, will run alongside it.

From 19 to 25 May officers will undertake a range of activities, including community engagement and education to reassure young people that it’s safer not to carry a knife.

People will be encouraged to dispose of blades anonymously in surrender bins across the county and officers will visit schools to discuss the dangers of carrying a knife whilst offering help and support.

We’ll also work with partners, including Staffordshire County Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and businesses, to promote the ‘Challenge 25 ID’ retail approach.

Chief Inspector Dave Barrow, force lead for knife crime, said: “As well as seizing knives and arresting those in possession of them, we’ll be raising awareness of the dangers of carrying knives, particularly amongst young people.

“It’s important to recognise, though, that 99% of young people don’t carry a knife. However, those that choose to carry are at greater risk of it being used against them, so we encourage everyone to be knife free.

“The week is an excellent opportunity for us to highlight everything we’re doing with our partners to tackle knife-related crime but our work on this issue continues all year round.

“Our approach will be further strengthened when new legislation banning ninja swords comes into force in August, reducing their availability and increasing policing powers to seize them.”

Local teams out in force to tackle knife-related crime | Staffordshire Police