Police chief's response

A LONDONDERRY police commander has responded to recent concerns from the public and elected representatives regarding the level of violent crime in certain parts of the Waterside area.
By The Newsroom
Published 28th Jan 2010, 11:27 BST

Chief Inspector Chris Yates said that unfortunately media coverage of an assault in the Chapel Road area last week has led to some confusion and misconceptions about crime levels in the Waterside.

"Incidents like this can increase fear within the community however the reality is there is no evidence to suggest an increased level of assaults or violent crime in this particular area of the Waterside.

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"In fact over recent months we have experienced a reduction in disorder and assaults in the Chapel Road/Spencer Road areas with overall crime in the Waterside down by 13 per cent," said the police commander.

Waterside Sinn Fin councillor Lynn Fleming had expressed concern over what she described as the rise in the number of serious assaults in the area over the past few months.

Witnesses to the Chapel Road attack which took place at around 1.30am have been urged to contact police on 0845 600 8000 or "Crimestoppers" on freephone 0800 555 111.