POLICE have welcomed a sharp fall in crime - achieved with help from members of the public.
Northumbria Police said there had been a drop of almost 40 per cent drop in crime in Newcastle during the first two weeks of March, compared with the same period last year - a figure boosted by the public's help.
Operation Leach, which focused on the West Denton, Chapel Park and Chapel House areas of Newcastle North area command, followed a gradual increase in reported incidents.
Thirteen arrests were made for offences including burglary, vehicle thefts, theft and damage.
Chief Inspector Chris Catnach, of Newcastle North, said: "We were receiving an increasing number of reports of disorder and minor crime, and were looking to support residents, tackle the problems reported to us and deal with those committing the offences.
"There is no doubt this operation has had an impact both on crime figures and the criminals we targeted.
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