Dorset sees crime drop by 2.9% in latest stats
Figures show we live in one of the safest areas of the country
Overall crime in Dorset has fallen by 2.9%, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics.
Stats have been released for the year to September 2024.
There's been reduction in violent offences (down 5%), robberies (down 19.4%) and reports of stalking and harassment (dropping 10.3%).
But racially or religious aggravated offences are up 17% - Police say that's due to a spike in hate crime during last summer's protests.
Shoplifting is also up by 7% too.
Despite that, Dorset Police say the latest figures show the county remains in England's top ten safest areas.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “I am pleased to see that crime in Dorset has continued to fall, keeping the county one of the safest areas to live, work and visit. We are committed to our vision of being the safest county and remain steadfast in our relentless pursuit of criminals who cause harm to our communities, keeping people safe and putting victims first.
“We continue our dedication to working hard and collaborating with Dorset communities, gathering intelligence and investigating offences, enabling us to target those responsible. We work closely with our partners and business communities in a comprehensive approach to prevent crime and tackle the root causes.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, said: “Another consecutive fall in overall crime demonstrates why Dorset remains one of the safest places in the country.
“These results are testament to the hard work of Dorset Police officers, staff and volunteers who continue to deliver for the people of this county.
“I am pleased to see the significant drop in robbery offences, along with a notable reduction in stalking and harassment offences. I know the harmful impact stalking and harassment can have on victims and I would urge anyone with concerns over this type of behaviour to contact the police and report these distressing offences - help and support is available.
“It is also reassuring to the latest shoplifting offences are far below the national average. Much hard work has gone into tackling this aspect of business crime through initiatives including Dorset’s Operation Shopkeeper, which targets prolific offenders, alongside the work of the Dorset Safer Business Partnership which brings together a range of agencies to fight business crime. I hope this sends a message to offenders that shoplifting will not be tolerated in Dorset. I want to make it clear to businesses that wherever possible the Force will act when these offences occur, so please keep reporting.
“While these positive results show good progress, I know there is still work to do in some areas and I will continue to scrutinise the Force where this is needed. As the public’s representative in policing, I want to see further progress and will work with the Force to help achieve this.
“Ultimately, Dorset continues to be one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit. While Dorset Police face some difficult financial decisions this year, I will do my utmost to try and ensure positive progress is not adversely hampered by budgetary pressures and that our communities continue to be protected and safe as we deliver upon our vital commitments.”
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