Smarden Crime Rate

Smarden is a picturesque and highly secure village, boasting an overall crime rate of 51.2 per 1,000 residents. This figure is substantially lower than the UK average of 91.7, contributing to an impressive safety score of 86/100. Crime levels in the area have remained stable over the past year, showing a 0.0% change. While violence and sexual offences constitute the largest category of reports, the village has a notable burglary rate compared to its size, accounting for 14.7% of total crime. Property crime overall stands at 18.5 per 1,000 people, which is well below the national average but remains the primary focus for local security. For those seeking a tranquil and safe rural environment, Smarden remains one of the most secure locations in the Ashford area.

Crime Breakdown in Smarden

Smarden’s crime profile is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which account for 45.3% of all reports. Unusually for a rural village, burglary is the second most common crime, representing 14.7% of incidents (7.5 per 1,000 residents). Anti-social behaviour follows at 12.0%. Property crime as a whole—including burglary, vehicle crime, theft, and criminal damage—is a significant factor for the community, with a combined rate of 18.5 per 1,000 people. Criminal damage and arson make up 9.3% of the total. For residents of this historic village, the high proportion of burglary compared to the national average (which is often lower as a percentage of total crime) indicates that home security is a primary concern. Vehicle crime also accounts for 6.7% of incidents, suggesting that both homes and cars are targets for opportunistic offenders in the area.

Crime Trends in Smarden

The crime trend in Smarden is remarkably stable, with a 0.0% change year-over-year. A review of the monthly data for 2025 shows a consistent baseline with minor fluctuations. The year began with a peak in January at 8.2 crimes per 1,000, but then settled into a steady period of 4.1 crimes per 1,000 for several months (March through July). There was a brief dip in August and October to 2.1, with a slight rise in September to 6.2. This lack of significant upward or downward movement suggests Smarden is a settled community where crime levels are predictable and well-managed. For residents, this stability provides a high degree of confidence in the long-term safety of the village.

How To Keep Safe in Smarden

The most prevalent crime in Smarden is violence and sexual offences, though these are often isolated incidents. However, the high percentage of burglary (14.7%) and its concentration in the afternoon hours (57% of afternoon crimes) makes home security the most practical safety priority for residents.

To keep safe, always ensure that windows and doors are locked, even when you are at home or working in the garden. Since many burglaries occur during the day, using timer switches for lights or a smart security system can create the appearance of occupancy. For car owners, the 37% spike in vehicle crime during the night suggests that parking in a locked garage or a well-lit driveway is essential. We also recommend joining the local Smarden neighbourhood watch to stay informed about any suspicious vehicles or activity in the village. Simple steps like keeping valuables out of sight from ground-floor windows can significantly reduce the "window shopping" appeal of your home to opportunistic thieves.

Crime Timing in Smarden

Crime in Smarden is heavily influenced by the time of day, particularly regarding property offences. The morning (6am-12pm) sees burglary accounting for 37% of incidents, but this risk peaks dramatically in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), where burglary makes up a staggering 57% of all reported crime. This suggests that the village is most vulnerable during standard working hours when many residents are away. As evening falls (6pm-12am), burglary remains high at 49%, while the 'other' category increases. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime becomes a major factor, rising to 37% of incidents, while burglary still accounts for 47%. These patterns highlight a persistent risk to property that spans nearly the entire 24-hour cycle, with specific peaks during the day for homes and at night for vehicles.

Smarden compares very favourably to its neighbours. It is significantly safer than Headcorn, which has a crime rate of 85.2 per 1,000, and Biddenden, which sits at 68.2. It is also safer than High Halden (59.3). While the tiny settlement of Pluckley Thorne reports 0.0 crimes, Smarden is one of the most secure established villages in the region. Its stable trend and high safety score make it a standout choice for residents who prioritises a low-crime environment while staying connected to the larger towns of the Weald of Kent.

Protecting Your Smarden Home

Smarden's burglary rate of 7.5 per 1,000 is higher than many residents might expect for such a quiet village, representing nearly 15% of all local crime. In rural areas, properties are often more isolated, giving burglars more time to operate without being seen. Traditional security systems that only alert you once a door has been forced are reactive and often too late.

scOS offers a proactive solution designed for the modern homeowner. By using AI to monitor your property's perimeter, scOS can identify a potential intruder long before they reach your home. This is particularly vital in Smarden, where 57% of afternoon crimes are burglaries. scOS doesn't just record the event; it can autonomously engage deterrents like lighting and audio warnings to stop a crime in its tracks. For those with larger gardens or detached homes, the system's ability to verify vehicles and recognise familiar faces ensures you are only alerted to real threats. Investing in proactive AI protection is the most effective way to maintain Smarden's peaceful atmosphere within your own boundaries.