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10% increase in violence against women and girls cases in 2024

Jersey Police investigated 58 complaints of rape and serious sexual offences last year, with its annual report showing a 10% rise in incidents involving violence against women and girls.

The force ended 2024 with a charge rate for sexual offences of 18% - a figure said to be higher than comparable jurisdictions.

Convictions for sexual and domestic abuse offenders reached 220, an increase of 10 on the previous year.

States of Jersey Police credits a new victim-focused national scheme called Operation Soteria for transforming how it investigates such cases.

Read: Minister pleased with progress on tackling violence against women

 Police Chief Robin Smith

The 2024 annual reports notes that there has been a 28% increase in reports of vehicle-related offences.

Officers responded to more than 850 road traffic collisions last year. 56 of those resulted in 'serious injury'.

The force is aiming to disrupt the so-called 'Fatal 5' dangerous driving behaviours that result in incidents - including mobile phone use, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, and not wearing a seatbelt.

The number of these types of offences were up by 61% on 2023 figures, which the forces says demonstrates its 'proactive approach' to stopping incidents at the cause.

Another area where police have recorded increased cases is reports of missing people and youth crime.

The force handled 741 missing person reports in 2024, which it says were 'virtually all' youngsters.

That is taking up more resources, costing £1.8 million last year.

In contrast, fewer mental health-related incidents needed police intervention.  Cases were down by more than a third.

Only around 20% of incidents attended related to crime, with most being welfare concerns.

The force says it continues to sign post callers to partner agencies better-placed to provide help and support.

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