Crime falls in Devon and Cornwall says Home Office

Recorded crime has fallen in Devon and Cornwall by 5% in the 12 months up to June according to the Home Office.

Burglary was down by 6%, robbery by 4%, vehicle crime by 10% and fraud and forgery by 17% said the survey.

Sexual offences were up by 1% which police said was because of more reporting of domestic violence and work to encourage victims to come forward.

Drugs offences are up by 4% which police said was because they had been targeting dealers and users.

Devon and Cornwall Police recorded 51 crimes per 1,000 people, compared with 61 in the South West region and 75 in England and Wales, according to the British Crime Survey.

Deputy Chief Constable, Shaun Sawyer, said: "I am delighted these figures show, once again, how our efforts are continuing to ensure crime falls within the two counties."