The effectiveness of police presence in addressing crime in West Hill, East Devon, is a complex question best answered by examining the available data. The data indicates that West Hill is comparatively safe. The crime rate in West Hill, recorded as 31.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This suggests a lower incidence of crime within the BUA (Built-Up Area) of West Hill.
Furthermore, West Hill boasts a safety score of 90 out of 100, considerably higher than the UK average of 79. This score reflects a perception of safety among residents, potentially influenced by factors beyond just reported crime statistics, such as community cohesion and visible policing.
However, it's crucial to consider police response times, a key indicator of police effectiveness. Data from 2024 reveals a mean immediate police response time of 17 minutes and a mean priority response time of 39 minutes. While an immediate response time of 17 minutes might seem reasonable, a priority response time of 39 minutes could be a cause for concern, suggesting potential delays in addressing urgent situations. It’s important to note that “priority” incidents are defined by police protocols and may not encompass all situations residents would consider urgent.
It's important to remember that crime rates and safety scores are not solely determined by police presence. They are influenced by a variety of socioeconomic factors, community initiatives, and individual behaviours. The lower crime rate in West Hill may be attributable to a combination of these factors, alongside the police’s efforts. Further investigation would be required to determine the specific impact of police actions on the observed safety levels.