THERE is still time for members of the public to give their views on how low-level crime should be dealt with.

Ron Hogg, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for County Durham and Darlington, is holding a public consultation on the so-called community remedy, which gives victims more say in how low-level anti-social behaviour and crime is handled.

PCCs are required to draw up a Community Remedy Document under the new Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act.

Mr Hogg said: “Community Remedy is a way of delivering justice without involving court action and concentrates on rehabilitating offenders who have committed low-level offences by reconciling them with the victim of their crimes, so that they might understand the impact of their offending.

“Victims will have the option of asking questions directly to the offender, receive an apology or have any damage repaired, which can speed up the recovery process and provide them with the necessary closure.

“There is also some evidence to suggest that this approach prompts positive behavioural changes in the offender in the long-term, which can significantly reduce demand on police resources.”

The consultation closes on Friday, August 22. To comment, visit durham-pcc.gov.uk or call 03000-264-633.