CRIME in West Mercia has continued to fall, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics.

Total recorded crime dropped by four per cent between July 2024 and June 2025, following a six per cent fall reported earlier this year. Some of the biggest reductions were seen in burglary, which fell by 19 per cent, serious violence down nine per cent, overall theft down eight per cent, and shoplifting reduced by five per cent.

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion welcomed the figures, saying they were evidence of the dedication of the “hardworking men and women who make up West Mercia’s thin blue line.”

He added: “A reduction in crime is always welcome, but it is not just about statistics. Listening to local people shows there is still work to do to ensure communities feel the benefits of lower crime, while addressing areas of concern.”

However, not all crime categories saw a decrease. Sexual offences rose by nine per cent, matching the national average, while theft from a person increased by 22 per cent to 387 incidents. Possession of weapons rose by one per cent and stalking and harassment increased by three per cent.

Mr Campion said he would continue to challenge the Chief Constable to ensure crime reductions are reflected in safer, more confident communities across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Shropshire.

Other decreases included violence without injury down one per cent, public order offences down four per cent, robbery down one per cent, criminal damage and arson down four per cent, and drug offences down one per cent. Overall, there were 80,972 offences recorded across the region during the 12-month period.

The Commissioner emphasised that while falling crime rates were encouraging, local residents’ experiences and perceptions of safety remain a key focus for the police and his office.