The police response to criminal damage in Tiverton, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Mid Devon, involves a tiered system based on urgency. Currently, the mean immediate response time is 17 minutes, and the mean priority response time is 39 minutes, as of data collected in 2024. This means that incidents deemed immediately dangerous or posing a threat to life will be addressed first, followed by those requiring a prompt but less urgent response.
It's important to contextualise these response times within the broader picture of crime in Tiverton. The area has a crime rate of 98.0 incidents per 1,000 residents, slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6. This indicates a marginally increased risk of criminal activity compared to the national average. The safety score for Tiverton is 77/100, again a little below the UK average of 79, suggesting that while generally safe, there are areas for improvement.
When criminal damage occurs, the police will typically assess the severity of the incident and the potential for further harm. 'Immediate' responses are reserved for situations like ongoing vandalism where suspects are present or there’s a risk of escalation. 'Priority' responses cover incidents that require investigation and action but don't present an immediate threat.
Reporting criminal damage is essential. Prompt reporting allows the police to gather evidence, identify potential suspects, and allocate resources effectively. Even if the damage appears minor, it contributes to the overall crime picture and helps police identify patterns. The police will investigate reports of criminal damage, which may involve gathering witness statements, reviewing CCTV footage, and forensic analysis if applicable. The effectiveness of the police response also relies on community engagement and vigilance.