Dorset remains one of the safest areas in the country as overall crime drops again
Newly published crime statistics show that Dorset has experienced a further decrease in overall crime and continues to be one of the safest counties in England.
The Office for National Statistics released data on Thursday 23 April 2026, which confirmed that overall crime fell in Dorset by 9.2 per cent between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025, against a national decrease of 1.9 per cent.
Stalking and harassment reports fell by 6.5 per cent against a national increase of 3.1 per cent and victim-based crime fell by 8.9 per cent, together with a 7.2 per cent reduction in violence against a person and a 12.6 drop where violence against a person resulted in injury.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “I am pleased to see that Dorset has experienced yet again another decrease in crime and that the county continues to be one of the safest areas to live, work and visit.
“The Force has seen decreases in several crime types during this period, including reports of vehicle offences theft offences and burglaries, demonstrating a clear commitment from our teams to ensure the public are better informed on preventative measures and our efforts to target and disrupt those who intend on committing these offences.
“We continue to tackle whole crime groups from the street level thieves who are breaking into and stealing cars, onto those who buy the stolen cars and then the organised groups who sell the vehicles in the UK and abroad.
“During this reporting period we have seen some increases in crime, including a 3.3 per cent rise in sexual offences, which is below the national average increase of 5.2 per cent, and an 8.9 per cent rise in robbery offences, which mirrors the picture seen nationally.
“These crimes are abhorrent, and we take all reports extremely seriously and will do all we can to ensure victims are supported, offences are thoroughly investigated and offenders are brought to justice. We will continue to work closely with our partners in transforming the way we respond to, and investigate these offences, as well as improving the criminal justice journey for victims.
“I would encourage the public to report any information they may have to us by calling 101 or reporting online at www.dorset.police.uk. Alternatively, you can report information via our Intelligence Portal at: https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/about-us/local-support-and-guidance/intelligence/ or contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. If a crime is in progress, dial 999. The information you provide will help us to build a picture of what is taking place in our communities so we can ensure that our communities are safe and feel safe.
“It has been positive to see decreases for most crime types for the latest reporting period, but we will continue to strive to be the safest county in the country and remain driven to relentlessly pursue those criminals who cause the most harm to our communities, keeping people safe and putting victims first.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am delighted Dorset has improved to fourth safest place in the country. To see the relentless hard work and progress the Force is making in cutting crime, keeping people safe and bringing perpetrators to justice reflected in this result is tremendous.
“Alongside this improvement in ranking, Dorset has also seen the highest reduction in crime across all Forces, a testament to the determination and tenacity of officers, staff and volunteers. Dorset is a safer place because of their efforts.
“Reductions in violence, stalking and harassment, public order, theft and burglary are particularly pleasing as these offences cause significant harm and impact on people’s lives.
“Tackling shoplifting is a priority for Dorset Police and my Office, and together we are working tirelessly with the business community to ensure prolific offenders are brought to justice. Thanks to collaboration with the business community, a new digital reporting system has made it even easier to report incidents, so I urge business owners to continue reporting shoplifting incidents as every report matters.
“As PCC, I will continue to scrutinise and press for further improvements on behalf of the people of Dorset. Great progress has been made, and while there is still work to do to ensure this leads to greater public confidence, I thank all officers, staff and volunteers for their determination in ensuring Dorset is one of the safest places in the country.”
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