Topsham Crime Rate

Topsham's crime profile stands out for its lower-than-average property crime rate, despite a sharp 500% year-on-year increase in vehicle crime. With a safety score of 91/100, the area is 12 points above the UK average, making it one of the safest in the region. The most surprising finding is the 55% above-average rate of bicycle theft, which contrasts with the area's otherwise low crime statistics.

Topsham is a historic built-up area within Exeter, characterised by a mix of residential, retail, and leisure spaces. Its proximity to Exeter and proximity to natural features like the River Exe create a commuter-friendly environment. The area's moderate population density and relatively affluent demographics likely contribute to lower property crime rates, though the presence of cycling infrastructure may explain the above-average bicycle theft figures.

The most surprising finding is Topsham's elevated bicycle theft rate, which is 55% above the UK average (1.2 vs 0.8 per 1,000). This may be attributed to the area's extensive cycling infrastructure and tourist activity, which could create opportunities for opportunistic theft. Vehicle crime, though still below the UK average, has surged by 500% YoY, likely linked to increased car parking in retail zones or temporary spikes in vehicle presence. Violence and sexual offences, while rising by 100% YoY, remain 55% below the UK average, suggesting a focus on community cohesion and policing effectiveness. Anti-social behaviour's 61% below-average rate may reflect the area's strong local governance and public spaces designed for social interaction.

Crime in Topsham has increased by 19.4% YoY, with vehicle crime surging by 500% (from 1.0 to 6.0 per 1,000). This sharp rise may be linked to seasonal factors or temporary increases in vehicle presence, though it remains 73% below the UK average. Violence and sexual offences have doubled YoY (35 to 70 incidents), yet this rate is still 55% below the UK average. Property crime overall is 51.6% below the UK average, reflecting the area's very safe profile despite the vehicle crime spike.

How To Keep Safe in Topsham

For residents concerned about bicycle theft, secure bikes in locked, well-lit storage areas and use anti-theft devices like U-locks or GPS trackers. Vehicle crime, though still below the UK average, has surged by 500% YoY—consider using DVLA-verified parking apps and avoiding leaving valuables visible in parked cars. For general safety, utilise Topsham's low crime rates by engaging with local community initiatives and reporting suspicious activity through official channels. The area's very safe profile means most precautions are proportionate to the risk.

Crime patterns in Topsham show distinct temporal trends. Vehicle crime peaks at night (20:00-02:00), aligning with reduced surveillance in parking areas. Theft occurs most frequently in the afternoon (12:00-18:00), likely tied to retail activity and lunchtime foot traffic. Burglary is most common in the evening (18:00-24:00), correlating with returning residents and potential opportunistic targeting. Other crimes dominate overnight hours, possibly reflecting isolated incidents or unmonitored spaces.

Compared to nearby areas, Topsham's crime rate of 38.1 per 1,000 is 64% lower than Exton (East Devon) (23.3 per 1,000) and 33% lower than Clyst St Mary (50.8 per 1,000). Exminster, however, has a 65% higher crime rate (62.8 per 1,000), reflecting differences in population density and economic activity.

For Topsham residents, the primary concern is bicycle theft, which is 55% above the UK average, scOS addresses this through AI-powered boundary monitoring that detects and deters intruders near bike storage areas. Its simultaneous multi-camera coverage ensures no blind spots, while behavioural pattern learning distinguishes legitimate users from potential thieves. Ethernet-connected cameras prevent tampering, and automated lighting disrupts opportunistic crimes. At £19/month, this system provides tailored protection for an area with above-average property crime rates.