Crime is falling across several key categories, according to new official police figures for Moray.
Housebreaking has fallen by 22.7%, common thefts by almost 25%, motor vehicle crime by 47.3% and crimes of dishonesty by 24.2% compared to the same period last year.
The report, which covers the period from April to December 2014, also reveals an 11% drop in vandalism and a 37% fall in hate crimes.
However, the number of reported incidents of domestic abuse rose by 17.8%.
Moray Division Chief Inspector Willie Findlay said the figures illustrated the commitment of police officers and staff to keeping people safe.
He said: “The amount of thefts in Moray, particularly housebreakings, has continued to fall and the work of the police and the wider community safety partnership has similarly seen antisocial behaviour reduced, which has to be welcomed.
“Sadly there have been two deaths on the roads in Moray and a number of casualties including five children. Our efforts through Operation Cedar to challenge bad driving, educate drivers and detect and report those who won’t listen must continue.
“Unfortunately, whilst the figures are generally positive, I have to be realistic in the knowledge that crime will still occur, however, our policing teams across Moray are working hard to ensure it remains that way.”
Highlands and Islands MSP and Shadow Minister for Transport and the Islands David Stewart said he was pleased to see the reductions in reported crime in Moray, but would be seeking more detailed figures.
“I query just because I am determined to make sure that front line police officers in Moray are fully supported in their work and their numbers are kept up to the required levels,” he said.
“From the figures I have seen today, maybe this has happened, but I will have to look more closely to establish the overall drop in reported crime and the overall detection rate.
“However, I am heartened that the trend now seems to be moving along a positive upward improvement and that can only be good for the people who work in, live in and visit Moray.”