Isles of Scilly Crime Rate

The Isles of Scilly recorded a crime rate of 33.4 per 1,000 residents over the period from January 2025 to December 2025. This rate, while lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, represents a notable 23.4% increase year-on-year. Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent type of crime, followed by criminal damage and arson, and other theft. Understanding these trends and the unique characteristics of the Isles of Scilly is crucial for assessing safety and implementing appropriate preventative measures. This analysis aims to provide a clear overview of the current crime landscape and offer practical advice for residents.

The Isles of Scilly present a unique context for understanding crime statistics. As a small, remote archipelago, the community is tightly knit, and many residents have strong ties to the islands. The limited population and dependence on tourism and fishing contribute to the area's character. While the isolation can deter some crime, it also means that any incidents can have a disproportionate impact on the community's sense of safety. The islands' geography, with limited road access between them, also influences patterns of movement and potential opportunities for crime. The relatively small number of businesses and the reliance on seasonal employment can also be factors in the types of crimes observed.

The most prevalent crimes recorded in the Isles of Scilly between January 2025 and December 2025 were violence and sexual offences, accounting for 50.6% of all reported crimes. These were followed by criminal damage and arson (10.1%), and other theft (10.1%). While property crime rates are relatively low overall, the impact of these incidents can be significant in such a small community. The breakdown of property crime reveals that burglary is a minor concern, with only two incidents recorded. Other theft encompasses a range of offences, including shoplifting, which represents 7.6% of all crimes. The relatively low incidence of vehicle crime (1.3%) and drug-related offences (2.5%) suggests a generally stable environment, although vigilance remains important.

The crime rate in the Isles of Scilly has been steadily increasing throughout the period from January 2025 to December 2025. The year-on-year increase of 23.4% is concerning and warrants further investigation into the underlying causes. Monthly data reveals fluctuations, with notable spikes in February, March, April, July and September. These increases suggest a possible correlation with tourism seasons or specific local events, although further analysis is needed to confirm these links. The ongoing upward trend highlights the need for proactive crime prevention strategies and community engagement.

The Isles of Scilly’s crime rate stands in contrast to several nearby areas. Cornwall, Plymouth, South Hams and Torridge all recorded zero crimes, demonstrating significantly lower risk levels. However, West Devon has a considerably higher rate at 45.6 per 1,000, highlighting the varying levels of crime across the region and underscoring the unique challenges faced by the Isles of Scilly due to its isolation and limited resources.

Traditional CCTV systems often record footage after a crime has occurred, providing little preventative value. In the Isles of Scilly, where a sense of security can be easily disrupted, proactive protection is key. scOS offers an AI-powered approach, detecting threats at your property boundary before they escalate. Its multi-camera intelligence and DVLA vehicle verification capabilities provide an unparalleled level of security, recognising your family and deliveries while instantly flagging suspicious vehicles. The visible presence of scOS acts as a powerful deterrent, often causing potential intruders to reconsider their actions within those critical first 60 seconds – the timeframe most burglars operate within. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively preventing crime is another.

How To Keep Safe in Isles of Scilly

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's important to remain vigilant in public spaces. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Ensure your home is securely locked, even during the day, as opportunistic crime can occur. Consider joining a neighbourhood watch scheme to foster community awareness and support. Finally, report any suspicious activity to the local authorities promptly. Utilising a reputable alarm system can also offer an added layer of protection.