Derbyshire one of the safest counties in the country, according to Home Office stats

Total reported crime in Derbyshire rose by three per cent during the year to March 2018; significantly lower than the national and regional picture.
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Across England and Wales, crime rose by 13 per cent. For the East Midlands as a region, the rise was 11 per cent.

Nationwide statistics released by the Home Office today, Thursday, July 19, showed 55,389 crimes to have been committed in Derbyshire within the published categories during the 12 month period.

Derbyshire Constabulary’s Deputy Chief Constable, Gary Knighton, said: “The crime statistics published today show that the rise in crime in Derbyshire is only slight, supporting our view that we are one of the safest counties in the country.

“However, I want to be really clear that we do not consider recorded crime data as a complete or effective understanding of crime, or of people’s experiences of crime.

Crime is about victims, not about statistics – and areas such as modern slavery, online fraud, cybercrime and child sexual exploitation are big priorities for the force that aren’t covered in these figures.

“Every day we are making decisions based on risk and threat on where to allocate our resources against an extremely complex picture of criminality and vulnerability.

“These Home Office figures are in indication that – on the whole – our officers, staff and volunteers are doing a fantastic job.”

Hardyal Dhindsa, Derbyshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “These figures suggest that Derbyshire is the third safest place to live, work or visit – based on total recorded crime. This is very good news for the people of Derby and Derbyshire.

“Of course, any increase in crime is unwelcome but, even after funding reductions over many years, I’m pleased to see that Derbyshire’s increase is significantly lower than many other forces.

“This epitomises the strong leadership in the force and the commitment of the entire Constabulary to keep Derbyshire as safe as possible.”