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.
Torbay Council considers 'fire and re-hire' in pensions wrangle
110 extra officers for Devon and Cornwall Police
Elderly pedestrian hit by car in Paignton crash
Top up payments for Ukrainian hosts in North Devon
Plans submitted to join two catholic churches in Barnstaple
North Molton storm overflows halved
