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Car Crime in Dorset

Car crime in Dorset, UK, is a serious problem that affects the community and individuals who own vehicles in the area. Vehicle crime refers to a variety of illegal acts involving motor vehicles, such as theft, break-ins, vandalism, and other similar offences.

Car Crime in Bournemouth and Poole

The data shows that car crime is extremely prevalent in Bournemouth. With 596 crimes per 10,000 registered cars, Bournemouth's postcode BH2 was the worst impacted, but BH1 also fared badly with 375 equivalent offences.

According to our crime map, Bournemouth is a hive of criminal activity, with the town centre and Boscombe being the worst areas. 

Bournemouth and Poole Car Crime by postcode.png

10 Worst Postcodes in Bournemouth and Poole

Poole also has higher-than-average car crime, with Branksome Park also recording 165 crimes per 10,000 vehicles. Sherborne is the safest town in Dorset, with only 19 reported motor offences per 10,000 registered vehicles. You can find out more about crime in your area by visiting your local police website or Neighbourhood Watch.

Car Theft in Bouremouth

As of March 2023, vehicle crime has been getting worse in Dorset. After a brief decline in 2020 and 2021, potentially because of the coronavirus epidemic, it has risen again to an average of 5 vehicle crime reported incidents per 1,000 residents.

Using the population average of Dorset, it means there are approximately 1,895 vehicle-related crimes per year just in Dorset alone.

Catalytic Converter Theft in Dorset

Five thefts of catalytic converters were reported in Bridport, Beaminster, and Lyme Regis last September and October.

Vehicles parked in easily accessible or unlikely to bother people areas, such as on isolated roads or in secluded areas, are the most typical targets. Thieves will frequently use a power tool to cut the part off, which can take seconds, and then take off with it.

How To Protect Yourself from Vehicle Crime

In recent years, there has been an increase in technology-related vehicle crime, such as thefts targeting keyless entry systems and immobiliser bypassing. Criminals frequently use electronic devices to amplify the signal from key fobs inside homes, allowing them to unlock and start vehicles parked nearby.

car immboliser bypassing.png

To protect your vehicle, it is best to park in well-lit areas, use secure parking facilities when available, install approved security devices, and keep your vehicle's windows and doors locked. Furthermore, it is critical to avoid leaving valuable items visible inside your vehicle, as this can attract thieves.

Dorset police encourage victims of vehicle crime to call 999 and contact them as soon as possible. Reporting crimes allows authorities to gather valuable information, track trends, and effectively allocate resources to prevent and investigate such offences.

While vehicle crime is a concern in Dorset, local authorities are working hard to address the problem and protect the community. Residents and vehicle owners can help reduce the likelihood of being victims of vehicle-related offences by taking appropriate precautions and remaining vigilant.

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