Newly published statistics show that Dorset continues to be one of the safest counties in England, and has reportedly experienced a decrease in overall crime.
According to The Office for National statistics, overall crime in Dorset fell by 9.2 percent between 1st January 2025 and 31st December 2025.
This data was released on Thursday 23rd April and Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said she is pleased to see another decrease in Dorset’s crime especially in vehicle offences, and “we continue to tackle whole crime groups from 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”.
The Deputy Chief Constable adds: “we will continue to strive to be the safest county in the in the country and remain driven to relentlessly pursue those criminals who cause the most harm to our communities.”
Stalking and harassment reports fell by 6.5 percent, against the national increase of 3.1 percent and victim-based crime fell by 8.9 percent. Additionally, there’s a reported 12.6 percent drop where violence against a person resulted in injury.
The Chief Constable did admit however that there had been some increases in certain types of crime: “During this reporting period we have seen some increases in crime, including a 3.3 percent rise in sexual offences, which is below the national average increase of 5.2 percent, and an 8.9 percent rise in robbery offences , which mirrors the picture seen nationally.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “Alongside this improvement 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.
“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 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.”
Where to report:
It is encouraged that the public report any information they have by calling 101 or reporting online at https://www.dorset.police.uk/
OR, you can report information via the Dorset Police intelligence portal at https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/about-us/local-support-and-guidance/intelligence/
OR, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111