Crimestoppers 'concerned' by rising gun crime in South Yorkshire
There's a fresh appeal for information to tackling the growing number of gun crimes in South Yorkshire
Crimestoppers say they're concerned by the rising number of gun crimes being recorded in South Yorkshire.
It's as Hallam can reveal there's been a 80% rise in people charged with possessing a firearm with intent in our county over the past 5 years.
Figures obtained from a Freedom of Information Request show there were 388 crimes involving firearms in South Yorkshire last year.
Police are now turning to Crimestoppers to help them gather information to tackle it - they've asked the organisation to launch a campaign for information.
Gemma Wilson - from Crimestoppers in Yorkshire - says the figures are worrying:
"People have their families, they have children and they want to be able to provide a safe and secure family home but unfortunately there are individuals out there that stop that from happening and people feel scared in their own houses, on their own streets. We just don't think it's acceptable.
"I know if it were me, I'd be very concerned. I'd want something done about it. And I'd want to make sure that I can bring my children up in a safe and secure environment - which is why we really want people to come forward and give us the information so that we can pass that information on to the police and get them off our streets."
Last year South Yorkshire had the highest number of firearm offences per 100,000 of the population of anywhere in Yorkshire.
Crimestoppers now want anonymous help from South Yorkshire residents which they can pass on to the police.
Gemma says it's an issue which needs addressing:
"I think it's concerning for everybody. We want people to feel safe where they live and work which is why we want people to come forward. We need the people of Sheffield to tell us who is committing these crimes so we can pass on that information to the police and they can deal with it and see that these criminals are locked up.
"These gangs are involved with firearms and weapons and violence and drugs so I can understand why people may be concerned about coming forward with information. What we can do is promise the anonymity for anybody who contacts us."
Police say they've got dedicated teams tackling gang violence across South Yorkshire but they need help from the public to make the biggest impact possible.
You can report information to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111, or going to www.crimestoppers-uk.org and using their Anonymous Online Form, you will remain completely anonymous.