Ulcombe Crime Rate

Ulcombe's crime rate of 72.9 per 1,000 residents is 19.9% below the UK average, yet its property crime rate is 23.9% below the national benchmark. This apparent contradiction highlights the area's unique profile: while overall crime is lower, 'Other theft' is 75% above the UK average, suggesting a disparity between general safety and specific vulnerabilities. This contrast underscores the importance of targeted crime prevention in Ulcombe.

Ulcombe is a small built-up area within Maidstone, characterized by a mix of residential properties and local amenities. Its proximity to Maidstone and limited industrial presence likely contribute to a lower baseline for certain crimes. However, the area's compact nature and potential for transient populations may explain elevated rates of anti-social behaviour and other theft. The relatively high safety score suggests effective community cohesion.

Ulcombe's most surprising finding is the 75% above-average rate of 'Other theft,' which contrasts sharply with the UK average of 6.0 per 1,000. This may reflect the area's retail and service sector activity, which could attract opportunistic thieves. Meanwhile, 'Other crime' is 38% above the UK average, linked to the area's limited policing resources or the transient nature of certain populations. Violent crime, however, is 16% below the UK average, suggesting a lower incidence of interpersonal conflict compared to national trends. This could be attributed to Ulcombe's smaller, more cohesive community structure, which may reduce tensions that fuel violence.

Ulcombe's crime rate increased by 5.6% year-on-year, with burglary showing a sharp 100% rise (2.2 vs 1.1 per 1,000). This surge in burglary, despite the area's overall safety, may reflect increased property vulnerability or targeted offender activity. The monthly trend reveals a peak in January (9.9 per 1,000/month), likely influenced by post-holiday economic pressures and extended evenings. Conversely, November saw the lowest rate (2.2 per 1,000/month), possibly due to seasonal factors like reduced tourism and shorter daylight hours.

How To Keep Safe in Ulcombe

For residents concerned about 'Other theft' (75% above UK average), securing valuables in visible, locked storage is critical. Given the 100% YoY increase in burglary, ensure windows and doors have robust locks, and consider motion-activated lighting near entry points. Since vehicle crime spikes at night, avoid leaving cars unattended in poorly lit areas. For 'Other crime' (38% above UK average), report suspicious behaviour through local community channels, as Ulcombe's safety score suggests community engagement plays a key role in maintaining low crime levels.

Crime in Ulcombe shows distinct patterns throughout the day. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), aligning with retail hours and potential opportunities for shoplifting. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), likely due to unoccupied properties and reduced visibility. Anti-social behaviour is most common in the evening (6pm-12am), possibly tied to local social hubs or nightlife activity. 'Other theft' occurs most frequently in the afternoon, suggesting a connection to commercial activity and transient visitors.

Ulcombe's crime rate of 72.9 per 1,000 is 50% higher than Sutton Valence's 48.5 per 1,000, making it the least safe of the three compared areas. Kingswood (Maidstone) has a 1% higher rate than Ulcombe, while Langley Heath is 11% lower. These differences likely reflect Sutton Valence's more rural character and Langley Heath's lower population density, which may reduce crime opportunities.

For households in Ulcombe, where 'Other theft' is 75% above the UK average (10.5 vs 6.0 per 1,000), proactive security measures are essential, scOS's AI-powered perimeter detection can identify suspicious activity near properties, reducing the risk of opportunistic theft. Its DVLA vehicle verification feature is particularly relevant, as vehicle crime is concentrated at night (12am-6am), when unoccupied vehicles may be targeted. By integrating real-time alerts and autonomous deterrence, scOS raises the risk for potential offenders, aligning with Ulcombe's need for enhanced property protection.