The latest figures released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show that many crime types in South Yorkshire have decreased – some significantly – in the 12 months to September 2021.

Recorded levels of overall crime, firearm offences, knife crime, theft and residential burglary all fell in the 12 months to September 21 compared to the previous 12-month period.

Firearms offences fell by 18%, with knife crime down by 15% and a 13% reduction in theft.

South Yorkshire also saw a slight decrease in sexual offences compared to Yorkshire and the Humber and England and Wales where overall numbers increased.

Following targeted action on drug related crimes by South Yorkshire Police, there was a 17% increase in recorded drug offences.

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “In an ever-changing world it is encouraging to see reductions in violent crime, particularly those involving weapons.

“Whilst such an increase in drug offences seems alarming, South Yorkshire Police has put huge resource into targeted activity in gang crime and drugs supply, which will hopefully lead to more convictions.

“I do note, however, that there was an increase in stalking and harassment. This may mean that victims are more willing to report but we will continue to monitor it closely.

“These statistics show that the commitment and dedication shown by our Force is making an impact and I thank them for their ongoing work across the county.”

Below are the crime types according to whether they increased or decreased in the 12 months from October 2020 to September 2021:

Decrease:

• Firearm Offences (-18%)
• Knife Crime (-15%)
• Theft (-13%)
• Residential burglary (-12%)
• Robbery (-8%)
• Overall Crime (-2%)
• Sexual Offences (-1%)

Increase:

• Drug offences (17%)
• Misc. Crimes against society (8%)
• Possession of Weapons (5%)
• Violence against the person (3%)
• Stalking and Harassment (2%)
• Public Order Offences (2%)
• Criminal Damage and Arson (1%)