Night-time patrols by officers in Weymouth have seen significant reductions in crime and high praise from members of the public.
Reports of violence and knife crime, as well as violence towards women and girls, have nearly halved this summer compared to the last.
It follows increased activity in the town centre on Friday and Saturday nights as part of the Force’s Good, Safe Summer campaign.
Between 7pm and 2am, patrol officers and neighbourhood policing team (NPT) officers have been patrolling areas identified as crime hotspots.
During these patrols, they have engaged with the community, offered re-assurance through being highly visible and responded to ongoing incidents, which have often resulted in arrests and people being instructed to leave the town under disposal orders.
As well as patrols by uniformed officers, resources have been further strengthened by teams out on plain-clothed patrols and carrying out licensing visits.
This activity is set to continue in the town centre throughout autumn and winter.
Inspector Nicola Chalstrey, of Weymouth police, said: “I am pleased that our dedicated patrols in Weymouth have had a positive impact on the town and its night-time economy. There were 76 reports of violent crime in Weymouth and Portland between 1 July and 1 September 2024, compared to 44 reports for the same period this year – figures like these demonstrate we are making a step in the right direction.
“They have received positive feedback from members of the public and local businesses, and we hope they show we have been doing all we can to ensure those living and visiting the area can have a safe and enjoyable time.
“Dorset remains within the top ten safest force areas in the country and we will continue with these patrols as part of our efforts to continue reducing crime.
“However, this activity is just one part of the equation. Reports from the public help us to understand what and where crime is happening in our communities – if we don’t know about it, we can’t put a stop to it. Please continue to make reports to the police because your information will directly influence the work that we do.”
