Kelsale Crime Rate

The recorded crime rate in Kelsale, within East Suffolk, was 59.0 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This figure sits below the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting Kelsale is generally safer than many areas of the country. However, a concerning trend of increasing crime has been observed, with a 28.8% year-on-year rise. While the overall safety score of 84/100 indicates a relatively safe environment, the upward trend warrants attention and proactive measures. Understanding the specific types of crimes and their patterns is crucial for residents and local authorities to address the underlying issues and enhance safety.

The crime landscape in Kelsale is primarily shaped by the village’s rural location and small population. While the overall crime rate is concerning, the specific types of offences offer a nuanced understanding. Violence and sexual offences constitute the largest portion of recorded crimes, accounting for 50% of the total, with 38 incidents reported. This suggests a potential underlying issue requiring further investigation, although the specific nature of these offences isn't detailed in the data. Following this, 'other' crimes, encompassing a variety of unspecified offences, contribute significantly to the overall figures, followed by other theft. The comparatively low number of burglaries, at just 5 incidents, indicates that dwelling security, while important, might not be the primary concern for residents, though this could be influenced by the village's relatively low population density. The low prevalence of vehicle crime also suggests a degree of safety in terms of vehicle security.

The 28.8% year-on-year increase in crime is a significant concern for Kelsale. Examining the monthly data reveals fluctuations, with a peak in January and February 2025, followed by a dip in March before rising again in April and September. A noticeable spike also occurred in October. While the monthly figures vary, the overall trend consistently points upwards. This increase necessitates a thorough investigation into the underlying causes, which could include factors such as changes in population demographics, economic conditions, or reporting practices. Continued monitoring of these trends is vital for effective crime prevention strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Kelsale

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s essential to remain vigilant in public spaces and be aware of your surroundings. Consider walking with a companion, particularly during evening hours. Due to the rise in 'other' crimes, be mindful of suspicious activity and report anything unusual to the authorities. With property crime being a factor, ensure doors and windows are securely locked, even when you're at home. Be cautious of strangers approaching you or your property and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. Finally, consider joining or forming a neighbourhood watch scheme to foster a sense of community and collective responsibility for safety.

Crimes in Kelsale are distributed throughout the day, though patterns emerge when considering the specific crime types. Burglaries show a slight tendency to occur in the afternoon, while vehicle crime is more prevalent overnight, between 12 am and 6 am. Violence and sexual offences are more frequently recorded during the evening hours, particularly between 6 pm and 12 am. Theft follows a similar pattern, with a higher incidence during commercial hours and into the evening. Understanding these time-based trends can inform targeted safety initiatives and community awareness campaigns.

Comparing Kelsale to neighbouring areas reveals a varied picture. Saxmundham has a significantly higher crime rate at 71.0 per 1,000, indicating a potentially more challenging environment. Conversely, Benhall Green, Yoxford, and Peasenhall all report zero crime incidents, showcasing exceptionally low crime rates. These stark differences highlight the localised nature of crime and the importance of understanding the specific factors influencing crime rates within individual communities.

Traditional CCTV systems offer a reactive approach – recording incidents after they’ve occurred. In Kelsale, where the crime rate is rising, a proactive system is increasingly valuable. Consider scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system that detects threats at your property boundary before they escalate. Its multi-camera intelligence constantly monitors your surroundings, while DVLA vehicle verification instantly identifies suspicious vehicles. Recognising your family and routines, scOS only alerts you to genuine threats, providing peace of mind. The 60-second decision point for many burglars is crucial; the visible deterrence of a professional-grade system like scOS can make them reconsider. Reading crime statistics is one thing; scOS actively prevents those statistics from impacting your home.