According to the latest Office of National Statistics (ONS) crime figures released on Thursday 19 October 2023, Devon and Cornwall are the safest places to live and visit in England and Wales.
Devon and Cornwall have consistently been in the top three in recent years and the latest figures put Devon and Cornwall in first place, ahead of Wiltshire and North Yorkshire. Crime in Devon and Cornwall rose by 0.4%, below the national average of 2.6%.
Although theft offences have increased overall by nearly 16%, this is from a low base and our force area still has the lowest rate of theft in the country. Forces across the country have seen similar rises, which seem to be driven by the cost of living crisis.
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said:
“It’s fantastic news that once again our counties are the safest places to live in the country. However, this is no cause for complacency; there is still much to be done to achieve my Police and Crime Plan priorities of tackling violence, drug use, antisocial behaviour and road safety in our communities.
“It is vital that anyone experiencing crime has the confidence to report it to Devon and Cornwall Police, and I would like to remind the public that as well as contacting the force by phone or online via 999 or 101, they can visit their nearest police station to speak to a police enquiry officer in person.