Recorded crime levels across the county reduced by 3.4 per cent in 2008/09, reaching their lowest level for 20 years. This reduction has so far been sustained and exceeded during 2009/10. This has been achieved through a range of initiatives, often involving our partner organisations, as well as efforts by the public to follow crime reduction advice and improve their own security. Crime and incident levels are closely monitored, and appropriate action is taken to deal with any emerging issues.

Comparing the three month period November 2009 to January 2010 with the same period last year, there has been an 18 per cent, or 620 offences per month, reduction in overall crime.

Crime levels have reduced in every category.

Vehicle crime has reduced significantly, by 23.3 per cent, as has burglary, a crime of significant concern to county residents, which is down by 13.8 per cent.

Violence, another crime of concern, has decreased by 12.4 per cent, while anti social behaviour is down by 11.6 per cent.

Robbery also decreased by 10 per cent, however these crimes are rare and this equates to a decrease of two offences per month.

Work will continue, with partner agencies, to reduce crime still further in the county in the coming month.