VICTIMS of violence, robbery and burglary should receive a premium service under an improving package of police work, according to the York and Selby area commander.

Chief Superintendent Tim Madgwick told the Evening Press he was determined to foster a "can-do" attitude among his officers.

New police figures reveal crime in York dropped by 14 per cent year-on-year in the three months up to June, including falls in burglary, vehicle crime and robbery.

But rising violent crime such as street disorder, domestic violence and assaults against public sector staff, remained a serious problem.

Officers are also concerned about alcohol-fuelled misbehaviour and damage, an issue highlighted in an Evening Press investigation this week.

Mr Madgwick said: "We should be looking at providing a really premium service for certain crimes, such as violence, robbery and burglary.

"Everyone should know that the police in York will do everything they can to give them a good quality service and to try and detect the offender.

"The next stage for me is not only successfully detecting crime but getting a successful conviction and finding out what effect that has on further crimes. If they (persistent criminals) have a sentence which prevents them reoffending, it will bring crime figures down and with it the number of victims."

Since Chief Constable Della Cannings joined the force in October 2002, 45 extra officers and 22 community support officers have been recruited in York and Selby.

Mr Madgwick said central area resources had also increased by seven per cent and 20 more officers would be recruited later this year.

He said only a small percentage of people living in York and Selby were actively and persistently involved in crime.

"The trick is to take them out at every possible opportunity and that is what we will do because that is where we create the pressure and say to the courts 'here they are again'," he added.

Updated: 10:44 Thursday, July 08, 2004