Cornwall Crime Rate

Cornwall’s crime statistics, based on data from February 2025 to January 2026, present a complex picture. With a crime rate of 73.2 per 1,000 residents, the county demonstrates a lower rate than the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000. However, a safety score of 82/100 suggests that perceptions of safety may not fully align with the statistical data. While crime has remained stable with a 3.7% year-on-year change, understanding the specific types of crime prevalent in Cornwall is vital for residents and visitors alike. This analysis provides a detailed overview of crime trends and offers insights into the factors influencing safety within the county.

Cornwall’s crime statistics are influenced by a unique combination of factors. As a predominantly rural county with a significant tourism sector, the area experiences fluctuating population densities throughout the year. Coastal communities and popular holiday destinations often see a rise in opportunistic crime during peak seasons, while more isolated inland areas may face challenges related to rural crime, such as theft of agricultural equipment or livestock. The demographics of Cornwall, with a relatively ageing population, can also contribute to specific crime patterns, such as vulnerability to scams or fraud targeting older residents. Understanding these nuances is crucial when interpreting the overall crime data.

Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crimes in Cornwall, accounting for 18,666 reported incidents, or 32.0 per 1,000 residents, representing 43.7% of all recorded offences. Anti-social behaviour follows, with a rate of 12.1 per 1,000 residents (7,032 crimes), contributing 16.5% to the overall crime picture. Criminal damage and arson are also significant concerns, occurring at a rate of 7.5 per 1,000 residents (4,344 crimes or 10.2% of total crimes). Property crime, encompassing burglaries, theft, and criminal damage, stands at a collective 20.8 per 1,000 residents. Theft (other than shoplifting) accounts for 5.3 per 1,000, while public order offences represent 4.4 per 1,000. Shoplifting is relatively low at 4.2 per 1,000, but the diverse range of offences highlights the challenges facing law enforcement.

Crime in Cornwall has remained stable, demonstrating a 3.7% year-on-year change. Monthly crime rates varied between 5.1 and 7.3 per 1,000 from February 2025 to January 2026, indicating a consistent level of criminal activity. While the overall trend is stable, ongoing monitoring is crucial to identify any emerging patterns or localized increases in specific crime types.

Cornwall's neighbouring local authorities—Plymouth, West Devon, South Hams, Torridge, Teignbridge, and Torbay—all report a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000, highlighting Cornwall's comparatively higher crime levels. This difference underscores the unique challenges and demographics contributing to crime within Cornwall itself.

Traditional CCTV systems often record footage after a burglary has occurred, providing little in the way of prevention. scOS, however, operates differently. Using AI-powered threat detection at the property boundary, scOS identifies potential risks – from unfamiliar vehicles to suspicious individuals – before they can become a threat. For instance, the DVLA vehicle verification feature instantly flags vehicles with fake plates, preventing potential theft. The multi-camera intelligence system constantly monitors all cameras, ensuring no blind spots. Considering Cornwall’s crime rate of 73.2 per 1,000, proactive protection like scOS offers a significant advantage over reactive security measures, providing an element of surprise and deterrence that can prevent crime from happening in the first place. The 60-second decision point for many burglars is often the deciding factor; the visible presence of scOS can make them reconsider their actions.

How To Keep Safe in Cornwall

Given that violence and sexual offences are the most common crimes in Cornwall, residents should prioritise personal safety. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in areas with higher crime rates like Newquay and Truro. Avoid walking alone at night, and ensure your home is securely locked. Report any suspicious activity to the police promptly. Consider installing visible security measures, such as motion-sensor lights, to deter potential offenders. Finally, be cautious of scams and fraud, particularly if you are a vulnerable adult.