200 sex offences in licensed premises in five years

Between 2013 and 2018 there have been 190 sex offences in West Mercia Police force area, figures from a Freedom of Information request have shown.

But police say the figures show that the number of crimes appear to be reducing year-on-year, a trend described as "encouraging". The force also praised landlords for their co-operation in dealing with the issue.

Last financial year there were 39 sex offences in licensed premises, a reduction from 41 the year before and 51 in 2015-16.

Between April 1 last year and March 31 this year there were 27 reports of women being sexually assaulted, and two reports of men being sexually assaulted.

There were also three reports of rape in licensed premises and three reports of attempted rape.

Voyeurism in a licensed premises was reported to police once last year.

Between 2013-14 there were 30 reports of sexual offences, including causing or inciting prostitution, four reports of exposure and 22 reports of females being sexually assaulted.

In the last five years, 124 suspects have been identified for the 190 sex offences reported to have taken place in licensed premises.

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Shrewsbury Ed Hancox said the fact the number of offences was falling was an encouraging sign.

He said: “It is important to recognise these figures reflect the whole of the West Mercia Police area and do not just relate to Shrewsbury town centre but we know Shrewsbury has a busy and vibrant night life.

"It is encouraging to see the number of offences falling but that does not mean we are complacent and our work to make Shrewsbury a safer place continues."

Inspector Hancox added: “Through Team Shrewsbury we work very closely with Shropshire Council and licensed premises across the town to make sure people coming into the town for a night out can do so safely.

"There is a strong and active Pubwatch scheme in the town through Shrewsbury BID.

"Officers carry out regular patrols on the nights the town is busiest with Street Pastors and Street Ambassadors assisting in helping keep people safe and we are also looking to introduce Club Angels.

“We would always encourage people to look out for each other on a night, to stay with friends and always make sure they have plans to get home.”