Police are delighted that crime has fallen for a third year in a row in Kings Langley.

A total of 160 crimes were recorded by the police in 2013, compared to the 173 in 2012 and 184 in 2011.

However, drug related crime rose for a third year in a row, escalating from 15 in 2011, to 24 in 2012 and 29 in 2013.

The number of burglaries classified as "other", which includes break-ins into sheds, garages and commercial property also rose from ten in 2012 to 25 in 2013.

Chief inspector Glen Channer said: "We saw an increase of shed break-ins and garages, especially blocks of garages away from the residential home where people are not securing them properly, earlier on this year.

"Proactive measures were put in place to tackle these issues however, we would continue to encourage people to ensure that their sheds, garages and out houses are properly secured and protected.  We would also encourage people to join their local Neighbourhood Watch or Allotment Watch."

Inspector Channer added: "Most drug related offences are recorded as a result of proactive police activity therefore an increase is an indication of our continuing activity against people involved in drugs"

The number of cases involving less than £5,000 worth of damage has also fallen for a third year in a row, with 30 crimes being reported in this category, down 4 from 2012.

Ian Martin, Police Community Support Officer for Kings Langley praised the local community at the Annual Kings Langley Parish Council meeting on Thursday.

He said: "The single best bit of good news is that year on year, crime figures are coming down."
The PCSO added: "The community are amazingly supportive. It is an absolute pleasure to work in the area."

Councillor Gerry Angiolini, vice-chair of Kings Langley Parish Council praised the work of Ian Martin in the village.

He said: "I just think that the PCSO we have in this area is doing a good job. He’s spent a lot of time in the village. He’s made an effort with the youths in the village and has got a high presence."