­RECORDED crime in Devon and Cornwall has fallen by almost 4% over the last year according to statistics published last Thursday (October 16).

Overall crime for the 12 months to September 2014 fell by 3.9%, a drop of 3,336 crimes, compared to the same period in 2012/13.

Victim-based crime is down by 5.3% or 3,297 offences. The force has seen significant reductions in domestic burglary (10.1% or 331 crimes) and vehicle offences (15.6% or 940 crimes).  Non-dwelling burglaries have decreased by 11% or 863 crimes, other thefts by 9.8% or 1,417 crimes while criminal damage is down by 910 crimes or 6.1% and public order offences are down by 8.4% or 483 crimes.

Chief constable Shaun Sawyer welcomed the continued fall in crime but acknowledged that the statistics showed areas which need further improvement.

'We have recorded significant reductions in burglary, vehicle offences and personal theft — all offences which are extremely personal and stressful for victims.

'Our officers focus on the crimes that have the most adverse impact on people's lives and we are doing everything we can to reduce crime in these areas.

'The overall decrease is a real achievement in light of a £47.9-million budget reduction in this force within four years and fewer officers.

'These figures are a credit to the dedicated and professional officers and staff who are working extremely hard to serve the communities of Devon and Cornwall and keep the public safe.

'It is heartening to see that public confidence in Devon and Cornwall Police remains steady.' 

Despite substantial reductions the force has recorded a 10.5% increase in sexual offences (or 215 crimes) and a 4.4% rise in violence against the person (905 crimes) which includes domestic abuse.

Shoplifting is also up by 4.4% or 334 crimes although offences have been on a downward trend since June 2014 due to proactive work being carried out across the force with local partners and businesses to reduce retail crime.

Mr Sawyer added: 'Sexual offences and domestic abuse have traditionally been significantly under-reported to police. Over the last 12 months we have been encouraging victims to come forward to police and we hope that this increase in figures shows victims have more confidence in reporting these crimes.

'We have experienced a rise in violent crime and we are working closely with partner agencies to understand the root causes of offending, target those who commit violent crime and identify those in our communities who need help as well as intervention.

'We will continue to build on the good work reflected in these figures to ensure public trust and confidence is maintained in the service we provide. We are making progress in reducing crime and Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly remains a safe place to live. I am determined to keep it that way.'