Mid Suffolk Crime Rate

Mid Suffolk recorded a crime rate of 40.8 per 1,000 residents in February 2026, 55.2% below the UK average. The most striking finding is the 162.5% year-on-year increase in robbery, a sharp rise that contrasts with the area’s overall safety score of 90/100. Despite this, Mid Suffolk remains one of the UK’s safest regions, with property crime 60.8% below the national average. This duality—rising robbery rates against a backdrop of low overall crime—raises questions about targeted incidents and local factors.

Mid Suffolk is a rural LAD with a mix of historic villages, market towns, and expansive countryside. Its low population density and strong community ties typically correlate with lower crime rates, though rural isolation can sometimes lead to unique patterns, such as burglary in sparsely populated areas. The region’s proximity to larger cities like Ipswich may contribute to occasional spikes in crime, particularly in areas with commuter links. Mid Suffolk’s safety score of 90/100 reflects its generally tranquil character, though the sharp rise in robbery suggests localized vulnerabilities that require further investigation.

The most surprising finding in Mid Suffolk’s crime data is the 162.5% year-on-year increase in robbery, despite the crime type remaining 84% below the UK average. This spike may be linked to targeted incidents in specific locations, though no detailed sub-area breakdown is available. Violence and sexual offences (18.9 per 1,000) remain the most common crime, likely influenced by the area’s mix of rural and semi-urban communities, where social interactions can sometimes escalate. Anti-social behaviour (3.4 per 1,000), though 77% below the UK average, may reflect the challenges of managing smaller, close-knit communities where disputes can persist. Property crime, including burglary (1.9 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (1.5 per 1,000), remains exceptionally low, partly due to the area’s low population density and limited commercial activity.

Crime in Mid Suffolk increased by 9.5% year-on-year, with a distinct monthly pattern peaking in July 2025 at 4.1 per 1,000. This seasonal rise may correlate with longer evenings and increased outdoor activity during summer months. The sharp 162.5% increase in robbery is particularly noteworthy. Other rising crime types—vehicle crime (+31%), drugs (+64%), and bicycle theft (+40%)—may reflect broader trends, such as increased drug-related activity or the growing popularity of cycling in rural areas. However, these rates remain significantly below UK averages, suggesting localized rather than systemic issues.

Mid Suffolk’s crime rate of 40.8 per 1,000 is significantly lower than nearby areas like Ipswich (97.7 per 1,000, 140% higher) and East Suffolk (56.7 per 1,000, 39% higher), which likely reflect their larger urban populations and higher economic activity. Babergh (44.6 per 1,000) and West Suffolk (60.8 per 1,000) also show higher rates, though the differences may be attributed to varying levels of urbanization. The safest nearby area is Great Bricett (9.5 per 1,000), a rural village with minimal commercial activity, contrasting with Thurston’s high rate (85.7 per 1,000), which may be influenced by its proximity to Ipswich and higher commuter traffic.

In Mid Suffolk’s low-crime environment, proactive security measures can provide peace of mind without excessive intrusion, scOS’s AI-powered boundary detection is particularly relevant for preventing burglary, which, while low, remains a concern. Its ability to distinguish between regular visitors and potential intruders reduces false alarms, ideal for rural homes where neighbors are often known. For vehicle crime, scOS’s DVLA plate verification could flag suspicious vehicles, a feature especially useful in areas with transient populations. The system’s real-time deterrence—automated lighting and speaker activation—aligns with Mid Suffolk’s need for minimal, effective crime prevention, ensuring security remains a background concern rather than a daily preoccupation.

How To Keep Safe in Mid Suffolk

Residents should focus on mitigating risks associated with the rising robbery rate, which may involve securing valuables during outdoor activities. For property crime, ensure garden gates are locked and avoid leaving valuables in vehicles, as vehicle crime remains a concern despite low overall rates. In areas with higher anti-social behaviour rates, community engagement and local support networks can help address underlying social tensions. While Mid Suffolk is generally safe, targeted awareness of the 162.5% YoY robbery increase is prudent, particularly in locations with transient populations or limited surveillance.