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Isle Of Wight Festival Crime Rates Down Compared To 2019

Photo from Isle of Wight Festival 2021.

Crime rates at Isle of Wight Festival 2021 have been revealed - and the statistics show there were fewer offences than at the 2019 event.

A large fall in thefts was among the findings of police over the weekend of September 16. Officers received reports of 16 this year - down from 33 two years ago.

Although the number of assaults (six), public order (three) and hate incidents (one) fell, officers did receive eight reports of sexual offences and 10 drug offences.

The force says it made a number of significant arrests in relation to some of the offences, and some remain live investigations.

Superintendent Clare Jenkins, said:

“The dedicated policing operation at the Isle of Wight Festival this year was a success. 

“We maintained a close working relationship with the festival organisers and other partners, including the Isle of Wight Council and WightLink, in the lead up to and throughout the event. 

“We appreciate that people will have very much been looking forward to either re-attending or attending the festival for the first time after it was cancelled last year, and especially as we now begin to return to some form of normality after a very difficult 18 months. We are pleased to report that the majority of people attending the event enjoyed themselves safely, responsibly and respectfully. 

“Our officers and staff have been on-site providing a response to reported crimes and to deal with the small minority who were detained for offences. In addition, the local Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been out in force within the local community outside of the festival site, providing an increased presence and re-assurance to local residents and festival goers alike."

In total, officers received 53 reports of offences, including concerns for welfare (three).

Hampshire Constabulary is urging anyone who has been a victim or witness to a crime during the festival to get in touch by either visiting the police website or by calling 101.

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