Latest crime statistics show Dorset continues to be one of the safest areas in the country after seeing a fall in crime.
Data from the Office for National Statistics confirms the county remains in the top ten safest areas in England.
During the 12 months to March this year, overall crime in Dorset decreased by 3.1 per cent, against a national average drop of 3.2 per cent.
The number of sexual offence reports decreased by 7.8 per cent, compared to the 2.9 per cent reduction seen across the country, while violence with injury fell by four per cent, against a national average drop of 3.1 per cent.
Reports of stalking and harassment dropped by 2.9 per cent, compared to a national decrease of 9.6 per cent.
Additionally, vehicles offences reduced by 11.9 per cent, while the national decrease was 6.3 per cent.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “I am pleased to see that Dorset has experienced another decrease in crime and that the county continues to be one of the safest areas to live, work and visit.
“We continue to strive in our vision to be the safest county and remain driven to relentlessly pursue those criminals who cause the most harm to our communities, keeping people safe and putting victims first.
“The force has seen an increase in some crimes, which mirrors the picture in other parts of the country. Reports of residential burglaries have risen by 1.2 per cent, while nationally there has been a four per cent decrease.
“We have also seen a 1.5 per cent increase of theft offences, but this remains lower than the national average increase of 3.2 per cent.
“These crimes cause fear and distress, and we are continuing to work hard with our communities to engage, gather intelligence and investigate crimes so that we can target those responsible.
“We are also working with our partners and business communities in a whole system approach to try and prevent crime and tackle the root causes.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, said: “These latest results contain some positive figures, and I am pleased to see another overall reduction in crime in Dorset.
“We are a safe county and these figures prove the work being carried out by the force alongside my office is delivering positive outcomes in many areas.”