Dunkeswell Crime Rate

Dunkeswell's crime rate of 24.0 per 1,000 residents is 73.7% below the UK average, making it one of the safest areas in the country. Despite this, other theft has surged by 400% YoY, a sharp contrast to the overall decline in crime. This anomaly highlights the need to understand local patterns and their drivers.

Dunkeswell is a small built-up area in East Devon, characterized by its rural setting and close-knit community. Its low population density and limited commercial activity likely contribute to its overall safety. However, the area's proximity to major transport routes and seasonal tourism may influence crime patterns, particularly in theft-related categories.

The most surprising finding is the 400% year-on-year increase in other theft, which remains 64% below the UK average. This could be attributed to rising parcel delivery activity, given Dunkeswell's rural nature and reliance on online shopping. Violence and sexual offences. of all crimes, are 69% below the UK average—likely due to the area's low population density and community cohesion. Criminal damage and arson, which rose 100% YoY, may reflect seasonal factors like increased outdoor activity or isolated property vulnerabilities. Burglary, also up 100% YoY, remains 21% below the UK average, due to well-maintained housing stock and limited commercial targets.

Dunkeswell's overall crime rate has decreased by 9.8% year-on-year, with most categories showing decline. However, other theft has surged by 400% YoY, a stark anomaly. Monthly data reveals a seasonal pattern: crime peaked in April 2025 (3.9 per 1,000/month) and dipped in December (0.4 per 1,000/month). This may reflect increased online shopping activity during the year, particularly around holidays. The sharp rise in other theft, despite remaining 64% below the UK average, suggests localized factors such as delivery infrastructure changes are at play.

How To Keep Safe in Dunkeswell

For residents, securing vehicles in rural areas is crucial, given the 100% YoY rise in vehicle crime. Avoid leaving valuables in sight, and consider using vehicle alarms. For property owners, the 21% below-average burglary rate suggests strong home security is still wise. Community vigilance remains key, as Dunkeswell's low population density means neighbours are often the first line of defence against opportunistic crime.

Crime in Dunkeswell shows distinct temporal patterns. Burglary peaks at night (12am-6am), aligning with the area's rural isolation and potential for unoccupied homes. Theft, however, peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), likely tied to daytime shopping activity in nearby towns. Other crimes surge in the evening (6pm-12am), possibly linked to sporadic social events or transient visitors. Vehicle crime, though low overall, spikes at night, suggesting opportunities for unsecured vehicles in rural areas.

Compared to Hemyock, Dunkeswell's crime rate is 28% lower (24.0 vs 30.6 per 1,000). This difference may stem from Hemyock's higher population density and greater commercial activity, which could contribute to more opportunities for theft and burglary.

In Dunkeswell, where crime rates are 73.7% below the UK average, proactive security measures can further enhance safety. For instance, the 100% YoY increase in vehicle crime highlights the need for securing vehicles in rural areas, scOS offers AI-powered perimeter monitoring that distinguishes between regular deliveries and potential threats, with automated lighting and speaker activation to deter intruders. Its ability to verify vehicle registration and learn household patterns reduces false alarms, making it a discreet yet effective solution for maintaining the area's already high safety standards.