Mid Devon Crime Rate September 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Mid Devon’s crime profile in September 2023 reveals a distinct balance between violent and non-violent offences, shaped by seasonal and demographic factors. With a total crime rate of 3.7 per 1,000 residents—53.8% below the UK average—the area demonstrates a consistently lower-than-average exposure to crime. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 34% of all reported crimes, a share significantly higher than the UK average of 2.7 per 1,000 (53% below). This suggests a pronounced focus on interpersonal conflicts, potentially linked to the back-to-school and university freshers’ influx in September. Anti-social behaviour followed at 21.6%, reflecting patterns often seen in areas with active community spaces and public venues. Criminal damage and arson made up 12.1% of total crimes, a figure 17% below the UK average, which may indicate lower levels of property-related disputes or community cohesion. The seasonal context of September—nights drawing in and increased social activity—likely contributes to higher reports of violent and anti-social incidents. While property crimes like burglary and vehicle crime remain relatively low, the prominence of violent offences highlights the need for targeted community engagement and support services. This mix of crime types contrasts with more industrial or densely populated areas, where property crime often dominates. Mid Devon’s profile aligns with a rural-urban hybrid district, where localised social dynamics and seasonal transitions play a key role in shaping crime patterns.

September 2023 saw significant fluctuations in specific crime categories, with bicycle theft surging by 200% (from 1 to 3 incidents) and robbery doubling (from 0 to 1). These spikes may reflect the return of students to university campuses, increasing the number of bicycles on public transport and in shared spaces. Conversely, burglary and vehicle crime both fell by 33.3%, potentially due to reduced foot traffic in residential areas during the early autumn. The crime mix also shifted, with violent offences (34% of total) outpacing property crimes (27.2%), a deviation from the UK average where property crime typically holds a larger share. Violence and sexual offences remained 53% below the UK average, a consistent trend that may indicate effective community policing or lower population density reducing opportunities for such crimes. Anti-social behaviour, though still below the UK average, rose to 21.6% of all crimes, suggesting the need for targeted interventions in public spaces. For residents, the sharp increase in bicycle theft underscores the importance of securing personal property during peak travel periods. These changes highlight how seasonal transitions and demographic shifts can rapidly alter crime dynamics in Mid Devon.

Mid Devon’s crime rate remained stable in September 2023, matching the previous month’s rate of 3.7 per 1,000 residents. This consistency suggests no major spikes or dips in overall criminal activity during the month. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 10 crimes per day—a figure that, while low, reflects the ongoing presence of crime in a populated district. Over the course of September, one reported crime occurred for every 270 residents, a monthly exposure rate that is lower than the UK average. With a population of 84,993, this translates to a relatively low risk for individual residents compared to national benchmarks. The stability in crime rates contrasts with areas where seasonal changes or major events often trigger sharp fluctuations. However, the significant disparity between Mid Devon and the UK average—particularly in categories like burglary (69% below) and vehicle crime (79% below)—suggests unique local factors at play, such as community engagement initiatives or geographic characteristics that limit opportunities for certain crimes. For residents, these figures reinforce the perception of Mid Devon as a safer area, though the 200% rise in bicycle theft serves as a reminder that vigilance remains necessary in specific contexts.