Ely Crime Rate

Ely's crime rate of 60.2 per 1,000 residents is 33.9% below the UK average, reflecting its status as a very safe area with a safety score of 87/100. However, a sharp 72.7% year-on-year increase in drug-related offences highlights a concerning trend. This rise, despite remaining 54% below the UK average, suggests evolving challenges in crime prevention.

Ely is a historic market town in East Cambridgeshire, known for its cathedral and mix of traditional and modern housing. As a commuter hub with a strong sense of community, its crime profile reflects a balance between local retail activity and suburban tranquility. The presence of educational institutions and tourism infrastructure may influence patterns of theft and anti-social behaviour, while rural proximity to nearby villages could impact burglary rates.

Ely's most surprising crime trend is the 72.7% year-on-year increase in drug-related offences, despite remaining 54% below the UK average. This rise may be linked to increased online activity or changes in drug distribution networks. Violence and sexual offences. of total crimes, are 39% below the UK average—likely due to the town's relatively low population density and strong community policing. Shoplifting has risen 32.5% YoY but remains 13% below the UK average, possibly reflecting seasonal retail demand. Bicycle theft, slightly above the UK average (2% higher), may be attributed to the town's commuter culture and limited bike storage infrastructure.

Ely's overall crime rate remained stable (0.2% YoY), but drug-related offences surged by 72.7% year-on-year—its most significant increase. This rise, despite remaining 54% below the UK average, may be linked to warmer weather facilitating illicit activity or increased online drug trafficking. Shoplifting and other crimes also rose (32.5% and 48.1% YoY respectively). The sharp drug trend contrasts with declines in anti-social behaviour (-5.5% YoY) and burglary (-6.4% YoY), suggesting targeted interventions in specific areas.

How To Keep Safe in Ely

To address Ely's 0.8 per 1,000 bicycle theft rate (2% above UK average), secure bikes with GPS-enabled locks and store them in well-lit, monitored areas. For vehicle crime, park in designated secure zones and use dashcams. Given the sharp 72.7% YoY rise in drug-related offences, avoid unlit areas at night and report suspicious activity promptly. Community engagement through local Neighbourhood Watch schemes can also help maintain Ely's overall safety profile.

Crime in Ely peaks during afternoon hours (12pm-6pm), with theft accounting for 51% of incidents and vehicle crime rising to 5% in this period. Evening hours (6pm-12am) see a shift to vehicle crime (14%) and other crimes (50%), likely linked to nightlife activity and reduced surveillance. Nighttime (12am-6am) witnesses a surge in vehicle crime (35%) and other crimes (38%), possibly due to isolated parking areas and limited street lighting. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are relatively quiet, with burglary accounting for 9% of reported crimes, suggesting opportunistic intrusions during early morning routines.

Ely's crime rate of 60.2 per 1,000 is 29% lower than Witchford's 77.7, which may be attributed to Witchford's higher population density and industrial activity. In contrast, Little Downham's rate of 38.5 per 1,000 is 56% lower than Ely's, likely due to its smaller, more rural character and lower commercial activity.

For Ely residents, proactive security measures are essential given the 2% above-average rate of bicycle theft (0.8 per 1,000). AI-powered systems like scOS can detect and deter intruders by monitoring property perimeters with existing cameras. Its ability to distinguish between household members and potential threats reduces false alarms while maintaining a visible deterrent. For vehicle crime (2.3 per 1,000), perimeter lighting and real-time alerts can disrupt opportunistic thefts. These features align with Ely's need for low-impact, effective crime prevention.