Crime figures out this week for Devon and Cornwall would seem to confirm the Police and Crime Commissioner's view that welfare reforms are leading to a rise in some offences.
Public order offences went up by 18 point four per cent in 2013 compared with the year before and there was a 7 point three percent increase in shoplifting.
Tony Hogg believes cuts in benefits are driving some people to steal from shops - and are also creating tensions among families and communities which lead to public order incidents.
Exeter's Royal Clarence hotel to be restored
Man sought after alleged Plymouth assualt
Cornwall ‘shafted’ by D&C Police, says leading councillor
Torbay's bigger buses outgrow streets
Anger at plans for 700 homes in Exmouth
