FALLING crime, major reductions in anti-social behaviour (ASB) and strong action on drugs and violence have been highlighted as key policing achievements for Dorset during 2025.

In a year-end update, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Sidwick said the county remains the eighth safest area nationwide, describing 2025 as a year of “real momentum and meaningful change” driven by close partnership working with police and local organisations.

ASB was a major focus with hotspot policing expanded through Operation Track and more than £200,000 invested in schemes via the Operation Relentless Community Fund.

The PCC said areas covered by hotspot policing saw ASB fall by almost 70% while Dorset Police recorded an overall 11% year-on-year reduction – the lowest level in 16 years.

Knife crime also fell significantly, down 13% over the year, placing Dorset among the lowest-ranking counties nationally.

The PCC credited knife amnesties, education programmes and targeted enforcement, alongside work with schools and Trading Standards.

A new Violence Reduction and Prevention Team has been set up to focus on early intervention and tackling the root causes of violence.

Action against serious organised crime and drugs remained a priority, with Operation Scorpion leading to multiple drug lines being shut down, dozens of arrests and large seizures of drugs, weapons and cash. Sidwick also pointed to the work of the county’s Combating Drugs Partnership, including the creation of Clarity, a lived-experience organisation supporting treatment and recovery.

Protecting women and girls was another key theme with initiatives such as Operation Vigilant continuing and a dedicated scrutiny panel reviewing how sensitive cases are handled.

Support services including Victim Support Dorset and STARS were described as vital in helping victims and delivering prevention work.

Rural crime policing was strengthened through investment in specialist teams, equipment and volunteers. High-profile successes included the recovery of stolen machinery from as far afield as Poland and Germany.

Despite falling crime and improved outcomes for victims, Mr Sidwick warned that Dorset remains one of the lowest-funded police forces in England and Wales, relying heavily on local taxpayers.

He said addressing funding inequality remains a priority as he looks ahead to 2026.