Residents of Falmouth, Penryn and beyond can be safe in the knowledge that Devon and Cornwall has the second-lowest reported crime in the country, in new figures released today.

The data shows crime has reduced by 9.5 per cent in the Force area during the 12-month period to the end of September 2020. In comparison, England and Wales has seen a decrease of 4.9 per cent.

Assistant Chief Constable Jim Nye has welcomed the news and praises staff and officers for their commitment to proactive policing in our communities.

He said:

"Devon and Cornwall have always been one of the safest areas in the country. To have that confirmed again by ONS data over a year-long period is a great result for Devon & Cornwall Police and the communities we serve.

"The figures highlight how hard our officers, staff and volunteers are working to reduce crime, as well as keep local communities safe.

"Although crime figures are only one area of performance we measure, my hope is our communities will feel reassured that we are working with them and partners to reduce crime and the fear of crime.

"We are pleased to see our efforts are paying off, but we will never stop working to make sure that communities are safe and secure."

A rise has been seen in two categories within the crime statistics, a 10.9 per cent rise in possession of weapons and a 1.3 per cent rise in drug offences.

These have been seen due to a continued effort in proactive policing to target these areas of crime.

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, added:

"I'd like to thank the hard-working officers, staff and partners who have kept going in difficult circumstances."

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