Fewer victims of crime in rural East Devon

Overall crime across East Devon fell by just under 18 per cent compared to the previous year. Inspector Antonia Weeks said: In real terms, this means at least 400 less victims of crime across rural East Devon.

Overall crime across East Devon fell by just under 18 per cent compared to the previous year.

Inspector Antonia Weeks said: "In real terms, this means at least 400 less victims of crime across rural East Devon.

"The biggest reductions were in assaults (-25 per cent), harassment (-20 per cent) and burglaries to homes which saw a massive 27 per cent reduction, or 44 less burglaries.

"Vehicle crime also reduced, with 22 less thefts of vehicles than last year. Our biggest crime by volume, criminal damage, also dropped by 17 per cent."

Inspector Weeks added: "Serious assaults rose from 11 offences to 15, but here we achieved a 100 per cent detection rate - ensuring that those responsible for such serious offences are brought to justice.

"Overall we detected just under 30 per cent of all reported crime, with many more positive outcomes in the form of restorative justice, a powerful and victim focussed approach to dealing with offenders.

"These figures support the perception of East Devon as a safe place to live and work and I am pleased that the work we have put into neighbourhood policing and a locally delivered service are reflected in a reduction in crime.

"However, I am also aware that statistics are only part of the overall picture..