Crime statistics show Wiltshire still one of safest places to live

Wiltshire has retained its status as one of the safest counties in the country, following the publication of the national crime figures yesterday (Thursday).

The figures – released by the Office for National Statistics – also show that reported crime is falling faster here (two percent year on year) than the national average (0.5 percent).

According to the statistics, Wiltshire has the fourth lowest level of crime in the UK. In addition, it is the fourth lowest for domestic burglary and the fifth lowest for robbery.

There has also been a significant reduction in vehicle crime (18 percent) with 604 fewer incidents. This is again better than the national average which saw only a six percent reduction.

However, not all the figures are heading down. Reflecting the national trend, violent offences were up by 18 percent, or 1,142 additional offences (20 percent nationally) and sexual offences increased by 20 percent, or 149 offences (22 percent nationally).

Chief constable Patrick Geenty said: “It is good to see that, in the main, crime is still reducing in Wiltshire. It is reassuring to see that the work we are doing has had tangible success and we shall continue to work closely with our partners as a victim-focused police service.

“A recent report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary graded Wiltshire Police as good and effective at reducing crime and preventing offending which is where we want to continue to be.

“We are in line with the national picture around violence and have a good understanding of how improved recording practices have impacted on the amount of recorded sex offences. Rest assured we will not become complacent in these areas.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “Reducing crime and anti-social behaviour is one of the key priorities in my Police and Crime Plan.

“These latest figures add weight to the recent finding by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary that Wiltshire Police do a good job in investigating crime.

“The force has taken action to improve the quality of crime recording by officers and to encourage the reporting of crime by victims of sexual offences.

“I have provided funding for more independent domestic violence advisors and this is helping victims to have the confidence to come forward and speak to officers.

“I am pleased that Wiltshire has maintained its position as one of the safest force areas in the country.”