The report by the College of Policing says an increasing amount of police time is focused on public protection, at a time when officer numbers and budgets are shrinking.
Chief constable Shaun Sawyer agrees - and says the local force has seen a particular focus in recent years on dealing with domestic abuse and child sexual exploitation.
He also said they deal with an average of 18 incidents a day involving people with mental health problems.
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Waste Carrier fined for dumping tonnes at Illegal site
He was already warned
Barnstaple shop slapped with three-month closure
Haul found after uncover operation
Dilapidated Brixham trawler will be dismantled
Eysore is finally going
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"I've always loved taking part!"
