Story perspectives

Cleveland Police Funding Criticized Amid High Crime Rates

1/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Cleveland Police funding is criticized as inadequate by Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey, who says the government settlement undermines local recruitment and neighbourhood policing.
Conservative MP Matt Vickers echoed the concerns, calling the funding model unfair and irresponsible.
Despite a 5.8% drop in overall crime, Cleveland still has the highest crime rate per capita in England and Wales.
Storey has sought government responses on this issue without success.

History

Historical Context

In 2010, the UK government cut police budgets by 20% over four years, impacting local forces like Cleveland Police, which now struggles with recruitment amid rising crime rates. Although overall crime decreased by 5.8%, Cleveland's per capita crime rate remains the highest in England and Wales, raising concerns about community safety and the sustainability of policing resources.

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Story summary

Cleveland Police funding is criticized as inadequate by Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey, who says the government settlement undermines local recruitment and neighbourhood policing.
Conservative MP Matt Vickers echoed the concerns, calling the funding model unfair and irresponsible.
Despite a 5.8% drop in overall crime, Cleveland still has the highest crime rate per capita in England and Wales.
Storey has sought government responses on this issue without success.

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