Crime in Leicestershire is at a 22-year low, chief constable Simon Cole has reported.
The force cut crime in 2012 despite its shrinking budget and its commitment to events such as the Olympics and the Queen's visit to Leicester, Mr Cole said yesterday.
In total last year, the force recorded 61,515 offences, 6,849 fewer than in 2011.
Mr Cole, of Leicestershire Police, said: "We are seeing reductions in crime at a time when we are experiencing considerably reduced budgets. However, we are not complacent.
"There is still a lot of work to do in the coming weeks and months to tackle crime and to seek new efficiencies in the way we do business."
Police and crime commissioner Sir Clive Loader, said: "Naturally I am pleased to see this reduction in the number of crimes committed.
"But, while there are still victims of crime, more work remains to be done."
