CRIME has dropped five per cent across the Chiltern and South Bucks area since last year, according to police figures.

There have been almost 400 fewer victims of crime in the area since last year, which included a 10 per cent drop in reported domestic abuse crimes.

As well as the drop in reported domestic abuse, burglary is also down with eight per cent less dwelling burglaries and three per cent less non-dwelling burglaries, including sheds and outbuildings.

A 32 per cent drop was also recorded in robbery of personal property with 17 fewer victims last year. Robbery of business property has also fallen by 20 per cent from 10 offences to eight.

Steve Hockin, local police commander for Chiltern and South Bucks, said: “I am pleased to report that overall crime across Chiltern and South Bucks is down, which is not only a reflection of good police work, but effective partnership working and support from our communities.

“However, there is certainly never any room for complacency and where we have unfortunately experienced some increases, such as theft from motor vehicle; sexual offences and theft from person; I am committed to reviewing our strategies and practices to ensure that we get the best results, addressing any areas of improvement.”

Despite some rises over the last year (running from April to March), the overall drop is an indicator of good work in the community, police have said.

Violent offences against the person are down from 968 offences to 887 resulting in 81 fewer victims and a drop of eight per cent.

Police have now said that less than one per cent of the population of Chiltern and South Bucks were affected by violence last year.

Public order offences are also down, with a 13 per cent drop recorded this year, whilst an eight per cent drop has now also been recorded for arson and criminal damage offences.

Anthony Stansfeld, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said: “I am delighted that Chiltern and South Bucks have seen a drop in overall crime this year and I would like to take the opportunity to thank all officers, staff and volunteers for their hard work and dedication.

“As one of my key priorities I am particularly pleased to see another drop in domestic burglary.

“This drop in crime has been achieved despite considerable budget reductions force wide and demonstrates how well Thames Valley Police are using their resources, including the new technology available to them.”