Exeter Crime Rate December 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Exeter’s December 2025 crime rate of 8.0 per 1,000 residents places the area 14.3% above the UK average, reflecting persistent challenges in maintaining public safety. Violence and sexual offences dominate the crime profile, accounting for 44.1% of all reported incidents, significantly higher than the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000. This category’s prevalence is consistent with Exeter’s status as a major urban centre with a vibrant nightlife and a university presence, factors that likely contribute to higher rates of interpersonal crime. Anti-social behaviour follows closely, contributing 13.2% of all crimes, 18% above the UK average. The seasonal context of December—marked by dark evenings, holiday shopping, and increased social gatherings—likely amplifies tensions in public spaces, particularly in areas with high concentrations of young people or transient populations. While shoplifting rates fell by 31.5% compared to November, this decrease may be temporary, as festive shopping periods often see surges in retail-related crime. The data also reveals a concerning trend in vehicle crime, which, though not yet highlighted in the summary, will be explored in the highlights section. Overall, Exeter’s crime profile in December underscores the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas, particularly those experiencing spikes in violent and anti-social offences.

December saw a dramatic 207.1% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 14 to 43 incidents. This spike, while not uncommon during holiday periods, highlights heightened risks for motorists, particularly in areas with heavy holiday traffic or poorly lit parking zones. Conversely, bicycle theft fell by 44.0%, likely due to reduced cycling during colder weather and fewer commuters. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category, contributing 44.1% of all crimes, 36% above the UK average. This underscores Exeter’s ongoing challenges with public safety, particularly in nightlife areas and high-traffic zones. The rate of shoplifting dropped by 31.5% to 74 incidents, possibly linked to reduced footfall in retail areas during the festive season or increased security measures. Residents are advised to remain vigilant in areas experiencing vehicle crime increases, as these incidents often occur in car parks or on main roads during peak hours.

Exeter's crime rate in December 2025 (8.0 per 1,000 residents) marks a 5.7% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 8.5 per 1,000, suggesting a slight overall decline in reported crimes. However, this masks significant fluctuations in specific categories. Daily crime activity averaged 36 incidents per day, a figure that underscores the persistent presence of crime in the area. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 125 residents, a monthly exposure rate that aligns with Exeter’s status as a major urban centre with a diverse population. While the overall rate is lower than November, the sharp rise in vehicle crime (+207.1%) and other crime (+64.7%) raises concerns about localized spikes that may require targeted attention. The population context—138,399 residents—means that even modest increases in crime can translate to visible impacts on community safety, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or transient populations.