By Jenny Lingham-Doe
Crime fell in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight for a sixth year in a row – and police vowed to ensure the force area remained a hostile place for criminals.
The total number of offences recorded by Hampshire Constabulary in 2012-13 was 108,745 – 15 per cent down when compared with the previous year.
Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: “I took up the post of chief constable in February and it is my intention to continue to drive down crime levels and ensure these positive results continue.
“Our aims are to protect the people we serve from those who would cause them harm by making our two counties a hostile environment for criminals.
“The continued reduction in total crime across the force is testament to the tireless dedication, commitment, hard work and ‘one team’ approach of my officers, staff and volunteers against a backdrop of cuts and financial restraint.”
Serious violent crime fell 21 per cent from 803 to 631 offences, burglaries, robberies and vehicle crime fell 22 per cent from 15,589 to 12,180 offences.