Crime on the Rise in Devon and Cornwall, But Still Below National Average
Crime soared by 9.3% in Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly in the year ending June 2022. While alarming, this is still below the national crime hike of 12.5%. Experts say the rise was expected, as the stats are compared with lockdown-hit 2020 and 2021, when crime took a nosedive.
Sexual Offences Spike Shocks Police
Reported sexual offences rocketed by 21.8%, echoing the national trend since lockdown eased in March 2021. Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Julie Fielding said:
“We’re committed to preventing these crimes, going after offenders, and supporting victims. Our work with the national Operation Bluestone Soteria team is improving how we investigate rape and sexual offences to deliver the highest standards.”
Mixed Results: Burglaries Down but Drug Crime in the Crosshairs
Good news — residential burglaries actually dropped by 1.1%, defying a 0.5% rise nationally. However, police remain fierce against drug crime, ramping up efforts with Operation Scorpion to smash county lines gangs and cut the harm from drugs.
Fielding added:
“We take every burglary seriously and are focused on keeping our communities safe by targeting the crimes that hit home the hardest.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Vows to Keep Pressure On
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, commented:
“Higher reports of sexual offences show victims are gaining confidence to come forward. We have some of the lowest neighbourhood crime rates in the country, but tackling violence and drug trade linked crime remains crucial.”
She also highlighted a major enforcement push this winter with five other forces under Operation Scorpion, sending a clear message that the South West is no safe haven for drug dealers and users.
Hernandez noted recent inspections have tightened the focus on accurate crime data recording to ensure transparency and better policing.
