THE number of reported rapes in Waltham Forest has doubled, according to police figures published today.
The latest statistics show there were 98 reported rapes in the 12 months to December 2009, compared to just 46 the previous year – the second highest increase in the whole of London behind Bromley.
Figures also show that overall crime in the borough increased by 6.5 per cent, an extra 1,680 crimes, bucking a trend for London as a whole, which saw a decrease of 20,000 reported offences.
Robberies, burglaries, gun crime and homophobic crime also rose in Waltham Forest.
The Metropolitan Police says crime across the capital is at its lowest level for 10 years, with fewer reported murders and less knife crime but more burglary, gun crime and rape.
Met Police commander Maxine de Brunner said:"Overall, crime continues to fall, which is great news for London.
"In particular, reductions in homicide, youth violence and knife crime represent continuing success in tackling these serious offences.
"However, the Met is not complacent.
“We recognise there remain challenging areas, and we continue to tackle those challenges head on."
Homophobic crime has risen by 52 per cent in Waltham Forest and 27 per cent across London as a whole.
A Met spokesman said this is a positive sign that more people experiencing homophobic crime are reporting the incidents.
The Guardian is awaiting a comment on the latest crime statistics from Waltham Forest police.
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