In his last annual report, Mr Vine said there had been reductions in all crime groups, including a 16% drop in indecencies and an 8% fall in violent incidents.

“Preventing crime has always been, and remains, a key priority for Tayside Police,” said Mr Vine, who is leaving next month to become the new chief inspector of the UK Border Agency.

“Ultimately, what we want to see is fewer victims of crime, and that means fewer people dealing with the physical, emotional, social and economic problems that come with victimisation.

“I believe that prevention is better than cure in the long-term fight against crime.

“That means tackling the root causes of crime — like drink, drugs and deprivation.

“It means intervening earlier to help those at greatest risk of falling into offending because of the circumstances they are born into.”

According to the annual report, presented to the joint police board today, reported crimes of violence in Tayside fell from 662 in 2006/07 to 608 last year.

Serious assaults were down from 241 to 218, and there was a 6% fall in the number of robberies, including attempts. However, there were six murders, up from four the previous year.

A 16% reduction in crimes of indecency was predominantly due to cases involving lewd and libidinous practices being cut by more than a third.

Crimes of dishonesty fell by 4% last year.

That included 90 fewer homes being broken into and 109 fewer commercial premises targeted. However, there was a rise in thefts from motor vehicles, caused largely by valuable portable items including sat-nav systems being left in unattended vehicles.

Mr Vine also pointed to a 7% drop in crimes of vandalism, malicious and reckless conduct — 520 fewer crimes than over the previous 12 months.

“Members of the public have told us that their biggest concern is anti-social behaviour in all its guises,” said Mr Vine.

“Tackling anti-social behaviour remains high on the force’s priorities.

“Significant activity has been undertaken in this area. Through greater partnership working, briefing and joint working with community wardens, and more use of police fixed penalty notices, we are targeting persistent offenders and known hot spots.”

On the region’s roads, there was an increase in collisions, but a 6.2% drop in the number of people killed or seriously injured, including 29 fatalities.

Other key figures in the annual report included 397 fewer bail offences recorded, a 6% rise in complaints against the police and a reduction in police officer absence.

The overall detection rate fell slightly, from almost 58% to 55.5%.

“I have been committed to making the communities of Tayside safer and stronger,” said Mr Vine, reflecting on a tenure that began in late 2000.

“After eight years as chief constable, I am delighted to report a 30% reduction in crimes of violence, 15% reduction in crimes of indecency, 40% reduction in crimes of dishonesty, 35% reduction in the number of houses being broken into — and a staggering 66% reduction in vehicle crime.

“I want to make sure Tayside continues to be a place where people, young and old, can walk down the streets without fear.

“Part of this is about tackling the fear of crime and deterring criminals. Community policing initiatives across Tayside are a great example of how officers can work together with local residents and retailers to address local concerns.

“They play a valuable role in reassuring the community that the police are working to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime.”