27
Aug
2015
By Calvin at 15:44 GMT, 8 years ago
Cumbria Constabulary is warning that alcohol is no excuse for violent behaviour as part of their operation targeting violent crime.
Ahead of the August Bank Holiday weekend, police are expecting the majority of revellers to enjoy themselves in pubs and clubs across Cumbria and for some, alcohol consumption will play a significant part.
Extra officers will be out on patrol on Sunday night across the county’s nightlife areas and they will be targeting those whose behaviour threatens the wellbeing of others. Police are issuing stark advice to potential offenders to ‘Do the Right Thing’ or face the consequences of their actions.
In August 2013 there were 238 incidents of violence causing injury and 109 of these incidents were alcohol-related. In August 2014 there were 295 incidents of violence causing injury and 137 of these incidents were alcohol-related. This shows that in both years 46% of violence with injury incidents were alcohol-related.
Superintendent Justin Bibby said:
“As we approach this year’s August Bank Holiday I would like to see everyone who does go out have a safe and enjoyable time. We do not want to see people who cannot control themselves ruin it for other people.
“Every year we see people in custody who blame their behaviour on alcohol. If you cannot trust yourself with alcohol then stop or limit what you drink.
“The extra officers on patrol will mean that we are able to monitor situations and intervene before they escalate. It is a minority of people who cause trouble and Cumbria continues to be one of the safest places in the country to enjoy a night out with friends and family, something which we and our partners are committed to maintaining.
“Our campaign this year is warning people to ‘do the right thing’ and not become involved in violent situations, and report any violent or abusive behaviour you may witness to the police. If you feel someone is being aggressive or acting unreasonably, please report it to an officer or security staff.
“We want everyone to have a safe Bank Holiday weekend.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes, said:
“I welcome the ‘Do the Right Thing’ campaign as Bank Holidays are a key time for families and friends to enjoy themselves. It is important that everyone behaves responsibly and thinks about the people around them.”
Anyone who is a victim of a crime or sees any suspicious activity should call Cumbria Police on 101.
For more information on the Think Before You Drink campaign please visit: www.cumbria.police.uk/alcohol.
For advice about Responsible Drinking please see:
http://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/personal-security/806/responsible-drinking/
For more information on the Do the Right Thing campaign please visit: www.cumbria.police.uk/dotherightthing.
