Crime figures published today show a rise in recorded crime for Devon and Cornwall Police, reflecting an overall national increase in recorded crime.

The force has seen a 17.4% increase across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly between July 2016 and June 2017, yet remains the third safest force area in England and Wales.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Netherton, said:  ’Increases in crime recording for crimes such as possession of weapons (up 33.1%), and public order offences (up 31.6%) we attribute to our proactive approach to policing in these areas. There has been a reduction in drug offences (down 4.2%).

’In addition to statistical rises caused by improved crime recording, increased victim confidence to report, and changing crime categories, we believe that we are now starting to see some increases in crime taking place in local communities.

’Such rises are being reported nationally and are generally being seen for higher-volume, less serious types of crimes.

’It is too early to explain exactly why this is happening, as the reasons are likely to be complex, related to societal factors and influenced by changes to services across the whole public sector over the last few years.

’We have experienced an unprecedented volume of 999 calls in June 2017, as reflected across the emergency services nationally.’