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The innocent victims of crime fuelled by alcohol
Thousands of innocent people are falling victim to those who drink too much, according to new figures.
Statistics reveal there were 5,743 alcohol-related violent crimes in our area last year, with more than a third committed in Portsmouth.
This puts the city well above the England average, with Havant and Gosport also recording high levels of violent crime.
Booze-fuelled sex attacks across the three areas were also well above average, with a total of 114 such offences locally last year.
While the Safer Portsmouth Partnership hopes its 'Save Dave' campaign will help cut the number of deaths from drinking too much booze, they also want to cut alcohol-related crime rates.
Chief inspector James Fulton, from Hampshire police, said: 'Whilst Save Dave is essentially a health awareness campaign, the police are supporting the positive impact it will have on reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.
'A number of crimes – such as violence in the home and in public – are often related to heavy alcohol use.
'Encouraging people to seek help for their alcohol misuse can only be good for the individual, their families and the wider community.'
The hard-hitting Save Dave campaign is aimed at friends and relatives of men aged 35 and over who drink too much.
It is hoped that by targeting the people close to them the so-called 'Daves' will stop reduce their alcohol intake.
Campaign organisers want to see a cut in booze-related illnesses, deaths, and hospital admissions.
Portsmouth city councillor Jason Fazackerley, who's responsible for community safety issues, said: 'Too much alcohol can impact on relationships, parenting, work as well as health.
'We also acknowledge that Portsmouth, as a city, does have its share of alcohol-related problems. That's why we are supporting this campaign to encourage people to seek help, reduce their drinking and take back control of their lives.'
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Weather for Portsmouth
Sunday 12 February 2012
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Temperature: 3 C to 7 C
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