The number of crimes reported in Hertfordshire rose considerably over the last year.

There was a 15.9 per cent rise in reported crimes on the year before, although this has been attributed to improved recording procedures and increased victim confidence in reporting crimes such as domestic violence and historic sexual abuse.

However some crime types in Hertfordshire did in fact decrease, such as home burglaries which fell by 3.7 per cent.

Commenting on the figures, Chief Constable Charlie Hall said: “We have placed great focus on the under reporting of crime during the past year, and encouraging victims to come forward.

“There is evidence that victims of previously hidden crimes, such as domestic abuse and sexual offences, are becoming more confident than ever before in coming forward to report crimes, enabling the constabulary to ensure the longer term safety of victims. 

“Most other forces across the country have experienced rises in recorded crime as the police service continues to improve recording practises, victim confidence and recording newer statutory offences such as malicious communication.”

Despite the changes in recording practices and improved compliance, the constabulary has identified some underlying increases in some crime types in Hertfordshire, including motor vehicle crime and shoplifting. 

Action plans have been put in place to address the issue.

Chief Constable Hall continued: “Whilst Hertfordshire continues to experience relatively low levels of crime - having one of the lowest levels of recorded crime in the country - we do experience local crime hotspots, such as recently with vehicle crime, and we are proactively tackling these problems and pursuing the people responsible.”

Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd added: “I am pleased to see that many fewer crimes are going unrecorded or unreported and that the percentage of crimes the police are aware of is continuing to rise. 

“However, it is also important that within the overall picture we are able to spot emerging crime threats such as car crime and can focus resources on tackling them. 

“At the same time we should recognise the success of police action in areas such as burglary.”