Rural Mid Devon Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Rural Mid Devon reveal a crime rate of 31.6 per 1,000 residents over the period of January 2025 to December 2025. This figure is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a higher prevalence of crime within the area. While fluctuations occur month to month, the overall trend indicates stability. For example, crime rates varied from a low of 1.8 per 1,000 in October 2025 to a high of 3.6 per 1,000 in May 2025. Understanding these trends and contributing factors is essential for assessing safety and implementing preventative measures.

The crime landscape in Rural Mid Devon is shaped by its rural nature and relatively small population of 16,847. Factors contributing to the reported crime statistics include the limited community resources, potential for opportunistic crime due to dispersed housing, and, occasionally, issues related to agricultural activities. While the area generally enjoys a sense of community, the lower population density can make it more vulnerable to certain types of crime. The demographic makeup, predominantly consisting of families and older residents, may also influence the types of crimes observed. Understanding these contextual elements is crucial for interpreting the crime statistics accurately.

Crime rates in Rural Mid Devon have remained stable year-on-year, showing a change of 4.1%. While monthly fluctuations are observed, the overall trend suggests a consistent level of criminal activity. For instance, the period saw a peak in crime in May 2025 (3.6 per 1,000) and a trough in October 2025 (1.8 per 1,000). This stability, while not indicating a decline in crime, allows for more predictable resource allocation and targeted intervention strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Rural Mid Devon

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s advisable to be particularly vigilant when out alone, especially during the evening. Secure your property thoroughly, paying attention to vulnerable points such as sheds and outbuildings. Due to the incidence of other theft, consider marking valuable items and recording serial numbers. Criminal damage and arson are also concerns, so ensure your property is well-lit and any flammable materials are stored safely. Finally, be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Crime in Rural Mid Devon exhibits distinct patterns throughout the day. Burglary is most frequently reported in the night (12am-6am), followed by the afternoon (12pm-6pm). Violence and sexual offences tend to peak in the evening (6pm-12am), particularly on weekends. Theft is prevalent during commercial hours (morning and afternoon), while vehicle crime is notably higher during overnight periods (11pm-6am). Understanding these temporal trends can inform preventative measures and targeted patrols.

When compared to similar built-up areas in Mid Devon, Rural Mid Devon exhibits a crime rate that is comparatively higher. Neighbouring villages and towns demonstrate a range of crime rates, with some showing lower figures due to increased community policing or different demographic factors. A full comparison would require a detailed analysis of each area’s specific circumstances, but generally, Rural Mid Devon's crime rate places it above the average for similar locations within the county.

Traditional CCTV systems are useful for recording incidents, but they often only provide evidence after a crime has occurred. For residents of Rural Mid Devon, considering a proactive security system like scOS can offer a different approach. scOS, with its AI-powered threat detection, monitors all cameras simultaneously, instantly verifying potential threats at your property boundary, using DVLA vehicle verification to identify suspicious vehicles, and learning your family's routines. This prevents crime before it happens. The element of surprise created by scOS’s autonomous response – lights activating, speakers engaging – can often deter potential intruders, making that critical 60-second decision easy for them: move on.