Lincolnshire Police find no link between street lights switch off and rise in crime

Lincolnshire Police have said there is “no evidence” to suggest that crime has increased due to the controversial overnight street lights switch off by the county council.

A police report has compared crime levels from before the council introduced part-night lighting to now, which has seen 42,000 street lights switched off between the hours of 12pm and 6am.

The force has acknowledged that there is a slight increase in overnight crimes and a 4% rise more generally, but believes this is not linked to the part-night lighting policy.

Crimes considered in the report include burglaries, violence, robberies, vehicle offences and cases of criminal damage in the areas affected by the changes.

Assistant Chief Constable Shaun West

Assistant Chief Constable Shaun West said: “Our findings so far are that there has been a slight increase in these overnight crimes.

“This is not surprising as we are experiencing more calls than ever before and overall crime in Lincolnshire has increased, as it has nationally.

“Crime is up by 4% in our county and the national average stands at an 11% rise.

“At present we believe there is no link between the introduction of part-night lighting and levels of crime.

“We will continue to monitor crime levels and if our analysis highlights any concerns at any time we will speak with the council. We may also look at other types of crime to ensure we are gaining a complete picture.

“I fully understand that when part-night lighting was introduced residents were concerned about their safety.

“Lincolnshire is an incredibly safe place to live and rest assured we are fully committed to making sure you are safe day and night.”

Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones. Photo: Lincolnshire Reporter

Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones added: “I welcome the Chief Constable’s decision to commission this report and his commitment to a continuous review of that intelligence.

“It is vital that people both are and feel safe and we will continue our efforts to ensure both.”

Lincolnshire County Council is currently consulting residents and businesses on the impact of part-night lighting. To share your views, click or tap here.