Dorset continues to be one of the safest areas in the country
The latest crime statistics show that Dorset remains one of the safest areas in the country after experiencing a sustained decrease in crime.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) released data on Thursday 24 April 2025, confirming that Dorset remains in England’s top ten safest areas. During the 12 months from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024, overall crime in Dorset fell by 1.1 per cent, a reassuring message for Dorset communities.
Notable reductions include a 22.7 per cent fall in robbery offences compared to a national rise of 0.4 per cent and a 5.1 per cent drop in violence against the person, in line with the national decrease of 4.4 per cent.
Reports of stalking and harassment also fell by 11 per cent, higher than the national decrease of 8.2 per cent, illustrating Dorset Police’s commitment to targeting perpetrators and supporting victims.
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. I welcome the additional funds from the Government as part of the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which will enable us to provide reassurance and visibility to make communities safer and feel safer while working with residents, visitors and businesses to solve local problems and reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
“We have witnessed a direct impact from our high visibility patrols in hotspot areas and seen a reduction in anti-social behaviour from 13,182 incidents reported in 2023 to 12,512 in 2024, a decrease of 5.22 per cent.”
During 2024 Dorset also experienced a sharp rise in vehicle offences of 20.7 per cent, when it fell nationally by 6.5 per cent.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell continued: “Unfortunately, here in Dorset, we have seen a spike in theft from vehicles of items that had been left on display by owners and a steep increase in keyless thefts of vehicles and joyriding of motorbikes.
“Recently, we shared the importance of keeping your vehicles secure, items away from view and the value of modern techniques, like using a Faraday box or pouch to secure your keyless entry device.
“Please view this video below to witness how good security practices can protect your vehicle from crime.” Keyless Car Entry Facebook Video
Burglary offences also increased in the county in 2024. Residential burglary rose by 1.6 per cent against a national decrease of 7.1 per cent and business burglary rose by 5.5 per cent, again against a national fall of 4.5 per cent.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell continued: “I recognise that burglary crime continues to increase in the county against the national trend. The Force is determined to tackle these offences and we have invested in this critical area with a newly formed Neighbourhood Crime Team. This team is dedicated to investigating burglary crimes and targeting prolific offenders. They are on hand to deploy to burglaries and complete primary enquiries, where possible, while reviewing all burglary investigations.
“My ask of our communities is to help us to reduce burglary offences by taking some small measures to protect your home. Please visit our website for advice on keeping your home safe and secure. Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Dorset Police
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