Counties' crime up by 11.7% despite national drop

The figure was inconsistent with what was seen nationally

Crime rates in Devon and Cornwall increased by 11.7% in the last year, according to the latest data, which shows national rates decreased.

Comparing the 12 months to March 2025 with the 12 months leading up to March 2024 showed an increase which was inconsistent with the national trend - a 1.7% decrease over the same period.

A spokesperson for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly said it was committed to driving improvements and holding the police to account to achieve fewer crimes, victims, and offenders.

Devon and Cornwall Police said it had nothing to add to the OPCC statement, ahead of a Police and Crime panel.

'Improved reporting of crime'

There were increases in violence without injury offences, stalking and harassment, public order offences, criminal damage and arson, sexual offences and shoplifting, according to the figures.

The force said these increases were the main contributors to the increase in total crime across the force area.

Devon and Cornwall Police had the second highest crime rate within its most similar force (MSF) group, behind North Wales, the data showed.

The OPCC spokesperson added: "The increase in recorded crime includes a 15.2% increase in theft and this is largely due to an increase in reported shoplifting offences.

"Police data teams have carefully considered this comparison and concluded the most likely explanation is that the improvement in the 101 non-emergency service has increased the reporting of crimes."

It said this included the opening of public enquiry offices, significant improvements with the length of time taken to answer calls to the 101 number, and improvements in the recording of crime.