Ingatestone Crime Rate

Ingatestone presents a complex picture regarding crime. While the overall crime rate stands at 42.3 per 1,000 residents over the period from January 2025 to December 2025, this is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This difference highlights that while Ingatestone is generally considered a safe area, certain types of crime require attention. The recent trend shows a decrease of -8.1% year-on-year, indicating a positive shift in safety. Understanding the specific types of crime and their distribution is vital for residents to feel secure and informed.

The crime landscape in Ingatestone is primarily shaped by the area’s characteristics as a relatively affluent, commuter-belt village. While the overall population is small (4,562), the presence of a historic market town centre and proximity to major transport links may contribute to certain crime types. The village’s appeal as a desirable residential location also potentially attracts opportunistic criminals. The low population density means that crime rates, when calculated per 1,000 residents, can appear relatively high. A combination of factors, including the prevalence of older properties and a degree of seasonal fluctuation in population due to commuters, likely influence the observed crime patterns.

The decrease in crime observed in Ingatestone, representing an 8.1% year-on-year reduction, is a positive development. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 demonstrates fluctuating crime rates, with particularly low figures in February (2.0 per 1,000/month) and May (2.0 per 1,000/month). Conversely, August saw a higher rate of 4.8 per 1,000/month. This variability suggests seasonal influences or perhaps specific local events impacting crime levels. The overall downward trend, however, indicates a successful effort to reduce crime within the community.

How To Keep Safe in Ingatestone

Given the prevalence of Violence and Sexual Offences, be aware of your surroundings, especially during evening hours. When visiting local shops, keep valuables out of sight to minimise the risk of shoplifting. With burglary being a notable concern, ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, even during the day. Consider installing security lighting around your property to deter potential intruders. Finally, be vigilant about vehicle security, parking in well-lit areas and ensuring vehicles are locked.

Crime patterns in Ingatestone show variation throughout the day. Burglary incidents are most frequent during the afternoon (40%) and evening (41%), while vehicle crime is concentrated during the night (41%) and evening (20%). Theft is spread relatively evenly across the day, but has a peak during the afternoon (45%). Violence and sexual offences are concentrated during the evening (0%), suggesting that the town centre may be more vulnerable during these hours. Understanding these patterns can help residents be more aware of their surroundings and take preventative measures.

Ingatestone’s crime rates are significantly higher than those of surrounding villages. Fryerning, Margaretting, and Havering’s Grove all report zero crimes per 1,000 residents, suggesting a markedly safer environment. In contrast, Blackmore exhibits a crime rate of 60.7 per 1,000, closer to Ingatestone’s level. This disparity underscores that while Ingatestone benefits from a largely rural setting, localised factors contribute to its higher crime rate compared to some nearby areas.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred, offering little in the way of prevention. With a crime rate of 42.3 per 1,000, proactive protection is essential for Ingatestone residents. scOS offers a different approach. Its AI-powered system detects threats at your property boundary, utilising multi-camera intelligence to watch all angles simultaneously. DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles, and the system learns your routines to distinguish genuine threats from normal activity. Imagine a burglar approaching your property; traditional systems would only record the event. scOS would activate lights, engage speakers, and potentially deter them before they even attempt entry – that 60-second window is crucial. If you want real protection, consider the proactive approach of scOS.