Andy Munns
Crime data released by the Office for National Statistics shows a decrease in overall recorded crime across Wiltshire,
The statistics show a significant reduction in areas identified as priorities for the force by Chief Constable Catherine Roper: burglary, violence, and safer public spaces.
According to the Crime Survey for England and Wales, released last week, total recorded crime was 4% lower for the year ending December 2023 than in the same period the previous year.
This figure represents 55.8 crimes per 1,000 people (excluding fraud) – the lowest rate of all forces in England and Wales.
The statistics, using data from police-recorded crime and the Crime Survey for England and Wales, also show reductions in Robbery -16%, Residential Burglary -15%, Sexual Offences -4%, Stalking -5%, Drug Offences -10%, Public Order -12%, and Violence with Injury -15%.
Increases were shown in non-residential burglary, which was +2%, and theft from the person, which was +9%.
In addition, recorded instances of shoplifting, in line with the national picture, show a significant 35% increase – this is slightly below the national average of +37%, which is the highest figure since current police recording practices began for the year ending March 2003.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “These statistics reflect the hard work and renewed focus of Wiltshire Police as part of our collective effort to transform the organisation to best serve our communities.
“Since becoming Chief Constable of Wiltshire, I have been very clear in challenging the force to embrace a programme of change and new organisational priorities to bring about lasting and meaningful improvements.
“I cautiously welcome this latest set of statistics that appear to reflect some of the significant gains in key areas, with improved outcomes for victims and an overall reduction in crime.
“As an organisation we are still on that improvement journey, and I am determined to build upon this strong foundation to ensure we are ‘Keeping Wiltshire Safe’.”
- See the full ONS report here by following this link
