Half of crimes linked to alcohol

[23 May 2008]

A new NHS report has found that 59% of victims who were wounded in violent crimes believe the offender was under the influence of alcohol.

Considerably more men are cautioned, proceeded against or found guilty of drunkeness than women and most offences are classed as 'drunkenness with aggravation'.

The NHS report also finds that the number of 11 to 15 year olds who have never tried alcohol has risen to 45%, compared to 39% in 2001. However, those children who do drink are drinking more. The average consumption among pupils who had drunk alcohol in the week prior to the survey interview was 11.4 units in 2006 - the highest amount ever recorded in the survey. Furthermore, 30% of 15 years thought it was ok to get drunk at least once a week.

To read the full story and to download the full NHS report, visit the BBC News website.

Please note: Crimestoppers is not responsible for the content on external websites.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity and not part of the police. If you wish to pass on information about crime anonymously, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or fill out our anonymous online Giving Information Form.