Dorset continues to rank among top ten safest counties as crime rates drop further
New data shows drops in violence, vehicle crime, and burglary in the year to September 2025
Crime statistics released this week show Dorset has maintained its place as one of the top ten safest counties in England, with overall crime continuing to fall.
The figures, published by the Office for National Statistics on Thursday (January 29) show that between October 2024 and September 2025, overall crime fell 6.0%, outperforming the national average of 1.6%.
Victim-based crime fell by 6.1%, while violence against a person decreased by 5.2%.
Cases of violent offences resulting in injury dropped by an impressive 11.4%, according to the report.
Declines in vehicle and burglary incidents
Vehicle crime saw a significant decline, dropping by 23.1%, outpacing the national average which fell by 13.3%.
Theft offences fell by 8.3%, mirroring trends seen across the country.
Business burglary offenses in Dorset fell by 18.4%.
Residential burglaries also dropped by 13.4%, a reduction police have attributed to increased arrests and new investigative tactics.
Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said:
“I am encouraged to see that Dorset has experienced yet another decrease in crime and that the county continues to be one of the safest areas to live, work and visit.
“We have seen significant decreases in several acquisitive crime types during this period, including an 18.4 per cent fall in business burglary.
"This reduction demonstrates our ongoing commitment to work with our partners and business communities in a whole-system approach to try and prevent crime and tackle the root causes."
Tackling stalking and harassment
Reports of stalking and harassment fell by 5.6% in the county.
DCC Farrell has said the drop is due to the force's High Harm Unit:
"Our High Harm Unit was set up in 2024 and sees a dedicated team monitor the highest risk offenders in the county, with an early intervention approach taken to prevent an escalation in offending and provide better protection to victims.
"We have seen a positive outcome rate increase of two per cent, demonstrating our focus on the county’s most prolific stalkers, and achieving convictions and desistance."
Shoplifting rise mirrors national trend
However, the report highlights areas of concern, such as a 7.6% increase in shoplifting.
Dorset Police say the rise reflects increased efforts to encourage reporting and awareness, alongside patrols and initiatives to address retail crime.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick acknowledged areas requiring improvement but commended the reductions in key areas such as burglary, violence, and vehicle crime.
Sidwick said: “Being placed firmly within the top 10 safest areas in the country is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of Dorset Police, our partners, and the communities we serve.”
"We know there is still work to do to ensure every resident and visitor feels safe and supported and I remain determined this progress continues in order to reduce crime, prevent harm and support victims, making Dorset an even safer place to live, work and visit.”