New police data reveals Wakefield is 'one of the safest places in West Yorkshire'
New figures released by West Yorkshire Police have shown a “significant decrease” in crime rates across all areas of Wakefield over the past year.
Between July and September this year, Wakefield district had the largest reduction in crime in West Yorkshire.
There was a 29 per cent drop, or 202 fewer offences, compared to the same period in 2024.
Across the district, Castleford saw the largest decrease compared to the same time last year.
Offences halved – down from 101 to 49 between July and September, which was largely due to a decrease in shoplifting and anti-social behaviour incidents.
Wakefield and Pontefract also both saw significant decreases, down 24 per cent and 26 per cent.
Chief Inspector Emma Hooks, who leads on neighbourhood policing and partnerships across Wakefield district, said: “Our officers have shown outstanding commitment to keeping Wakefield’s communities safe.
"With extra patrols, additional staff, and a focused approach from our Neighbourhood Policing Teams, we’ve delivered targeted operations and taken decisive action against offenders, including arrests and enforcement of Criminal Behaviour Orders.
“The increase in officer numbers has allowed us to respond to crimes and offenders more quickly, and the feedback from the public has been positive.
“This success is testament to the hard work and dedication of our police teams and the partnership’s approach to tackling crime in our communities.”
Coun Daniel Wilton, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, states that the success follows the strong collaboration between Wakefield Council, West Yorkshire Police and local partners as part of their Community Safety Partnership.
Coun Wilton said: “We’ve been working hard with our partners to deter and tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. Everyone should feel safe and supported wherever they are in our district.
"These figures show that the work we’ve been doing is starting to make a real difference.
“We may statistically be one of the safest places in West Yorkshire. But we are not complacent. Every crime that’s committed is one too many.
“There will always be more to do. We’ll continue to work with our partners so that our district can continue to be a great place to live, work and visit.”
Anti-social behaviour can be reported online via Live Chat, by using the relevant online reporting form or by calling 101.