Sussex Police Launch Knife Crime Crackdown with New SVRO Pilot
Sussex Police is stepping up the fight against knife crime with a fresh crackdown starting April 19. The force is joining a nationwide pilot to test Serious Violence Reduction Orders (SVROs). These tough new court orders target known knife and weapon carriers to slash serious violence and save lives.
How SVROs Aim to Slash Knife Crime
Sussex joins Merseyside, Thames Valley, and West Midlands as the first forces to trial SVROs. The orders apply to offenders aged 18 and over convicted of carrying knives or blades. The main goal? Change high-risk offenders’ behaviour and make it easier for police to stop and search them.
- Police can stop and search anyone under an SVRO for knives or offensive weapons.
- Orders last from six months up to two years.
- SVROs come into effect right after prison release.
- Breaking an SVRO is a criminal offence with up to two years in jail or an unlimited fine.
Backing from Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner
Chief Inspector Simon Yates, lead for Op Safety, said: “Being chosen to pilot this new scheme shows the good work Sussex is already doing tackling knife crime and serious violence.” He assured residents Sussex remains a safe place and officers are fully trained on the new powers.
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added: “This pilot is another tool to challenge and change the behaviour of knife carriers. While support and early intervention remain crucial, these powers will help keep our communities safer.” She will closely monitor the pilot’s progress.
SVROs to Strengthen Existing Knife Crime Efforts
This pilot boosts Sussex Police’s ongoing efforts, including Operation Safety and partnerships with the Sussex Violence Reduction Partnership, to tackle knife crime head-on. SVROs could become a game-changer in protecting Sussex communities from violent crime.
