Met Police Chief Faces Backlash Over Knife Crime Statistics Amid 13-Year High
# Met Chief Criticised for ‘Cherry-Picking Statistics’ as London Knife Crime Reaches 13-Year Peak
## Concerns Raised Over Crime Data Presentation
Sir Mark Rowley, the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, faced sharp criticism this week for allegedly using selective statistics in discussing knife crime in London. The report indicated that knife crime has surged to its highest level in 13 years, drawing widespread concern from the public and political figures alike.
In a recent address, Sir Mark claimed that overall crime rates were lower compared to previous years, yet these statements were met with skepticism. Critics argued that by focusing on certain data points, Rowley was downplaying the severity of the crisis. Many instances of knife-related violence occur during daylight hours, often in high-traffic areas, leaving witnesses behind, yet the rate of solved cases remains alarmingly low. "These are crimes happening in broad daylight, outside stations, on busy high streets, in front of witnesses. And almost no one is caught with only one in 20 robberies solved. For theft from the person, the figure is closer to one in 170," said Mr Philp, a notable critic.
Concerns about the Met’s handling of crime reporting were echoed by Ms Hall, who accused Rowley of "parroting selective stats." The criticisms come amidst growing demands for a transparent approach in law enforcement data to adequately address rising violence in London.