POLICE in the Test Valley are becoming more effective in successfully finding and prosecuting perpetrators of crime.

On the same day last week that Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) graded Hampshire Constabulary as ‘good’ for its investigation capability and protecting vulnerable people, up-to-date information released by the force shows officers in the county have further improved their effectiveness with 4,790 more ‘formal outcomes’ achieved – up 25 per cent on the previous year.

In the Test Valley policing area, there is a 9.8 per cent increase in formal outcomes - 1,004 in the period March 2016 to March 2017 versus 1,114 in the March 2017 to March 2018 period. In that same time period, there was a 8.4 per cent increase in crimes reported in the policing area.

Formal outcomes include action taken in the form of criminal charges, out-of-court disposals and convictions in court.

Overall in Hampshire, there were 4,790 more ‘formal outcomes’ achieved in 2017/18 than 2017/16.

Deputy chief constable Sara Glen said: “Policing has never been more difficult but one clear measure of effectiveness is the number of positive outcomes we achieve, and we’ve delivered 5,000 more than last year. Despite fewer officers, more justice is being delivered for victims of crime.

“Everyone knows our difficult funding position, and we have worked hard to achieve these results. They come from a combination of clear focus, having some of the best police officers and staff in the country, and good operational leadership.”

The HMICFRS report, released on 22 March, is made up of data based on the 12 month period to 30 June, 2017.

In 2016, Hampshire Constabulary was told by HMICFRS that it requires improvement in two of the four sub-categories of effectiveness.

Michael Lane, Hampshire and Isle of Wight police and crime commissioner, said: “The members of Hampshire Constabulary turn up each day to keep us safer, bringing courage and professional skills to meet the challenges each day presents.

“I am delighted the HMICFRS has tested them and found them committed and professional.”