Pubdate: Tue, Dec 14, 1999 Source: Evening News (UK) Copyright: Eastern Counties Newspapers Group Ltd,1999 Contact: http://www.norfolk-now.co.uk/ Author: Adam Aitken BLACK ARRESTS CAUSE CONCERN Figures showing that black people in Norfolk are nearly seven times more likely to be stopped and searched by police than white people have been condemned by a race equality group. Black residents are also nearly six times more likely to be arrested than whites, the latest statistics show. Norwich and Norfolk Racial Equality Council (NNREC) hit out at the figures but stressed that the problem was with society as a whole. The figures show disparity in Norfolk is actually higher than it is nationally. NNREC director Anne Martin said: "The numbers of people being stopped and searched is going down but the ratio of black people to white people is not and we have grave concerns with these figures." And she added the stop and search figures might be applied to other parts of society. "We receive complaints from black people on access to services, support by statutory agencies to deal with racism, discrimination in employment and racial harassment at work, so the problem is much deeper than just being a police one. "If the figures continue to show disparity how will public bodies continue to justify having the powers they currently have?" Acting Supt Mick Kirkham, of Norfolk police, outlined the benefits of the police's powers. He said: "Stop and search leads to the arrest of one in four drug-dealers, almost all arrests for carrying dangerous weapons and it led to the largest find of crack cocaine in this country for the last three years. "The powers enable the police to be proactive in the prevention of crime and the protection of the community." The Association of Chief Police Officers admitted there was much work to be done, but stated it was "determined to demonstrate fairness in every aspect of policing". Norfolk Chief Constable Ken Williams gave his support to tackling the problem. He said: "We have a zero tolerance policy and will not tolerate racism in any shape or form. "All parts of our community must have the confidence that their constabulary will deal with them in a sensitive and fair manner." - --- MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk