Feeling safe and secure in our own homes is a top concern for many of us, and many of us think that the authorities share that desire. If a break-in occurs, the obvious first action is to inform the police, who will normally arrive at the scene to examine the incident and collect evidence.
Recent events, however, may indicate that this method is set to change. According to Sara Thornton, the new chairwoman of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, officers may no longer respond to burglaries if there is no immediate danger to public safety.
While this may seem to be a relaxation of crime-prevention measures, the council believes it is limited in its ability to decrease services. Although not everyone is pleased with the changes, Thornton says that substantial adjustments are essential to shift ever-dwindling funds to more serious crime prevention.
A Novel Approach
Under the new plan, police will no longer react in person to burglaries if the criminal is no longer present. According to the police, priorities have had to change in order to address more severe crimes, and an officer may no longer approach a residence if an iPad or a few valuables have been stolen.
That is not to imply that all investigations into house break-ins will end; rather, local police forces will adopt a more hands-off attitude, and reaction times will be delayed if there is no danger to public safety.
Budget reductions
The root of the change, according to Thornton, is a tightening of budgets as a result of government austerity measures, noting that funding for police forces has been slashed by 25% in the previous four years, with further cutbacks predicted. Over the last decade, this has resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of positions, and Thornton is determined to avoid more personnel losses, which would result in a stretched force that could not provide a strong defence against crime.
The council justifies the decision by citing a decline in burglary and car crime in recent years, as well as a shift in attention to terrorism, online crime, and more violent actions.
“We need to think about concentrating on danger and damage and risk and safeguarding the public rather than responding to some of those old crimes,” Thornton says, emphasising the shifting nature of criminal activity in the twenty-first century.
Regardless of the premise underlying the move, many people will be worried about their alternatives if they are burgled, emphasising the need for prevention over treatment.
We know how invasive and disturbing the aftermath of a break-in can be so it is important to take all of the steps we can to prevent a burglary wherever possible. Fitting a monitored home security system and integrated CCTV to deter thieves and intruders gives you the peace of mind that your property is protected to a high standard. Call Ultimate Alarms today to discuss your security needs.
