Bag of UK Crime Minister Stolen at Police Conference

British Policing Minister Diana Johnson was a victim of burglary while speaking about increasing crime rates at a police conference. Read Full Article at RT.com

Bag of UK Crime Minister Stolen at Police Conference
While addressing a serious crime issue at a law enforcement conference, British Policing and Crime Prevention Minister Diana Johnson suffered a theft of her purse. The incident occurred during her speech at the Police Superintendents' Association conference, held in Kenilworth, as was confirmed by the ministry to the Financial Times. The Warwickshire Police are currently investigating a theft that took place at the hotel venue, and have apprehended a 56-year-old man on suspicion of burglary, who has subsequently been released on bail.

During her address at the PSA conference, Johnson expressed a commitment to “restore respect for the rule of law on British streets, including restoring respect for the police, which has sadly eroded over many years.”

Johnson highlighted the prevalent issues in town centers across Britain, declaring them affected by an “epidemic of antisocial behavior, theft, and shoplifting.” She praised the efforts of “thousands of incredible police officers” and other personnel, stating they do an “admirable” job. Yet, she pointed out, “we must face the reality that there are still too many victims of antisocial behavior who feel that when they call the police, no one listens, no one comes, and nothing is done.”

This context is underscored by the UK's decision to release thousands of prisoners early due to overcrowding issues, coinciding with numerous arrests during national riots. Nick Smart, President of the PSA, spoke on the repercussions, emphasizing the onerous position the police found themselves in through circumstances beyond their control.

In an effort to combat crime, which was a significant part of the Labour party's platform leading to their recent electoral victory after 14 years of Conservative governance, Johnson reaffirmed her commitment to boost community policing. However, the confidence in UK police forces is waning, as evidenced by YouGov polls revealing that more than half of the British public are skeptical about the police's effectiveness in crime handling, with 15% exhibiting outright distrust.


Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News