Crime | Posted on April 24th, 2026 | return to news

Dorset remains safe, according to crime stats

Overall crime dropped in Dorset in 2025, according to the latest ONS data, meaning the area remains one of the safest in the UK.

The latest crime statistics show overall crime fell once again in Dorset, and the area continues to be one of the safest counties in England.

The Office for National Statistics released data on Thursday 23 April 2026, which confirmed that overall crime fell in Dorset by 9.2 per cent between 1 January and 31 December 2025, against a national decrease of 1.9 per cent.

Stalking and harassment reports fell by 6.5 per cent against a national increase of 3.1 per cent, while victim-based crime fell by 8.9 per cent. There was a 7.2 per cent reduction in violence against a person and a 12.6 per cent drop where violence against a person resulted in injury.

Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “I am pleased to see that Dorset has experienced yet again another decrease in crime and that the county continues to be one of the safest areas to live, work and visit.

Farrell added that Dorset Police is committed to informing the public on preventative measures and that the Force’s efforts to target and disrupt those who intend on committing crimes are working.

“We continue to tackle whole crime groups from the 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.”

However, not all crime rates fell during the period. Sexual offences rose 3.3 per cent (below the national average increase of 5.2 per cent), while robbery offences increased 8.9 per cent, reflecting national crime rates.

Farrell said: “These crimes are abhorrent, and we take all reports extremely seriously and will do all we can to ensure victims are supported, offences are thoroughly investigated and offenders are brought to justice. We will continue to work closely with our partners in transforming the way we respond to, and investigate these offences, as well as improving the criminal justice journey for victims.

“It has been positive to see decreases for most crime types for the latest reporting period, but we will continue to strive to be the safest county in the country and remain driven to relentlessly pursue those criminals who cause the most harm to our communities, keeping people safe and putting victims first.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am delighted Dorset has improved to fourth safest place in the country. To see the relentless hard work and progress the Force is making in cutting crime, keeping people safe and bringing perpetrators to justice reflected in this result is tremendous.

“Alongside this improvement in 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.”

Dorset Police ask the public to report any information they may have on crime by calling 101 or reporting online at www.dorset.police.uk. Alternatively, you can report information via the Intelligence Portal at https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/about-us/local-support-and-guidance/intelligence/ or contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.