Sidmouth Crime Rate July 2023 | Monthly Statistics

The most unexpected development in Sidmouth’s July 2023 crime picture was a 44.4% increase in anti-social behaviour, rising from 9 to 13 incidents. This jump occurred despite the town’s overall crime rate remaining exceptionally low at 2.4 per 1,000 residents, a figure that is 71.1% below the UK average of 8.3 per 1,000. The town’s crime profile was dominated by anti-social behaviour (37.1% of all reported crimes), followed by violence and sexual offences (25.7%) and criminal damage and arson (14.3%). These patterns align with Sidmouth’s character as a coastal resort with a strong seasonal rhythm: July is peak tourist season, with festivals and outdoor events attracting visitors, which may explain the rise in anti-social behaviour. However, the town’s property crime rate—just 0.3 per 1,000 residents—was 53% below the UK average for criminal damage and arson, suggesting effective community policing in high-traffic areas. The low overall rate contrasts with the UK’s national average, which reflects Sidmouth’s small population and relatively low density of commercial or residential areas. The absence of major retail hubs or nightlife venues further explains the minimal property crime and violence rates. Seasonal factors, such as schools being out and increased visitor numbers, may have influenced the rise in anti-social behaviour, though local authorities have not yet commented on specific interventions.

July 2023 saw sharp increases in two categories: other crime and burglary, both rising from zero to one incident—a 100% jump—while anti-social behaviour also climbed by 44.4% (from 9 to 13). These shifts highlight a notable departure from June’s trends, with anti-social behaviour now accounting for 37.1% of all reported crimes, compared to 25.7% for violence and sexual offences. The UK average for anti-social behaviour is 1.4 per 1,000, yet Sidmouth’s rate of 0.9 remains 37% below that benchmark. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences in Sidmouth were 78% below the UK average (0.6 vs 2.8 per 1,000). The increase in other crime and burglary, both previously absent, suggests either a shift in reporting patterns or the emergence of new local issues. For residents, the most immediate takeaway is the 44.4% rise in anti-social behaviour, which may be linked to the town’s busy summer events and increased foot traffic. The UK average for burglary is 0.3 per 1,000, so Sidmouth’s 0.1 rate remains 70% below, but the single reported burglary in July—a 100% increase from June—raises questions about potential vulnerabilities in specific areas.

Sidmouth’s July crime rate of 2.4 per 1,000 residents marked a 6.2% increase from June’s 2.3 per 1,000, reflecting a slight upward trend. This translates to roughly one reported crime per day over the 31-day month, or one crime for every 415 residents. While the monthly exposure rate is low, the 6.2% rise from the previous month suggests minor fluctuations in local dynamics. The daily crime count is a local figure unique to Sidmouth, with no comparable UK-wide daily metric. When viewed against the UK average, Sidmouth’s position as a low-crime area remains stark: its overall rate is 71.1% below the national average, and even its most common crime type—anti-social behaviour—remains 37% below the UK rate. This contrast underscores the town’s distinct character as a coastal resort with limited urban density and strong community oversight. The population of 14,512 further contextualises the statistics, meaning the likelihood of any individual resident being directly affected by crime is extremely low. While the 6.2% monthly increase may seem concerning, it is far from indicative of a broader trend, as the town’s crime rate remains in the lowest percentile nationally.