Dorset remains within the top 10 safest places in England following decrease in overall crime
The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) crime data shows that Dorset remains within the top 10 safest counties after a decrease in overall crime in the last 12 months.
On Thursday 24 July 2025 data was released to show that overall crime fell in Dorset by 1.8 per cent between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025. Victim-based crime has decreased by 2.5 per cent and violence against the person dropped by 4.3 per cent.
The reduction in overall crime further highlights the Force’s commitment to make Dorset a safe county for everyone, whilst remaining tough on crime and relentlessly pursing criminals.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “Crime in Dorset has continued to fall. Residential and business burglaries reduced during this reporting period by 4.7 per cent and 4.6 per cent retrospectively. Our newly formed Neighbourhood Crime Team is doing a fantastic job at targeting prolific residential burglars by working across different departments, including with crime scene investigators in South West Forensics to bring them to justice.
“Robberies have fallen by 18.7 per cent compared to the national decrease of 2.7 per cent and this is testament to the work our teams have been carrying out to identify some of the patterns used in robbery offences, target prolific offenders and continue proactive patrols in hotspot areas.
“Unfortunately, we have seen an increase of 5.8 per cent in vehicle offences and I would like to remind the public to follow our preventative advice about safeguarding your vehicle from crime and report anything suspicious to us. We will be focusing our efforts in high-risk areas to disrupt those who intend on committing these offences.
“Our dedicated officers, staff and volunteers work hard alongside partners and businesses to prevent crime and tackle the root causes. We will continue to relentlessly pursue criminality and keeping Dorset a safe county for everyone remains our absolute priority.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am pleased to see total crime fall once again in Dorset, ensuring our county remains firmly in the top ten safest places to live.
“Reductions in some of the offences residents are most worried about, including burglary and violent crime, are welcome and demonstrate the unwavering focus and commitment towards tackling these harmful crimes and keeping people safe.
“I am also pleased to see a significant fall in robbery offences, as well as a reduction in stalking and harassment. I know the terrible impact these offences have on victims and while it is vital for Dorset Police tackle the perpetrators robustly, I also want to send a clear message to victims that you will be taken seriously and help and support is available.
“I also want to recognise that while there has been an increase in shoplifting for this period, Dorset’s rise is far below the national figure, and I will keep pushing for the Force to continue their successful work in this area - and reduce these numbers even further. Thanks to proactive initiatives in Dorset like Op Shopkeeper, which targets prolific offenders, we are focused on working with businesses and related organisations to bring these offenders to justice.
“My thanks go to all the officers, staff and volunteers in Dorset Police for their continued dedication and hard work in keeping those who live, work and visit Dorset safe. We continue to be one of the safest places in the country thanks to your efforts.”
Always call 999 if there is a danger to life or crime in progress. To provide information in a non-emergency situation call 101 or visit the Dorset Police website: https://www.dorset.police.uk/
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