South Molton Crime Rate May 2025 | Monthly Statistics

South Molton's crime rate in May 2025 stood at 6.4 per 1,000 residents, 21% below the UK average of 8.1. This figure reflects a mix of crime types, with violence and sexual offences making up nearly 40% of all incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (15.4%) and criminal damage and arson (12.8%). The area's crime profile aligns with its character as a built-up area within North Devon, where seasonal factors like longer evenings and increased outdoor socialising may contribute to fluctuations in public order offences. Despite the overall low rate, the data reveals distinct patterns: property crimes, particularly burglary, saw a significant rise, while violent crimes remained relatively stable. The UK comparison underscores South Molton's consistent performance in keeping crime levels lower than the national average, though specific categories—such as criminal damage and arson—show higher-than-average rates. This suggests that while the area generally benefits from effective community policing or other local deterrents, targeted efforts may be needed for categories like property crime, which saw a sharp increase. The seasonal context of May—marked by bank holidays and extended daylight hours—likely influenced the rise in burglary, as outdoor activities and socialising may create new opportunities for crime. However, the relatively low overall rate indicates that South Molton's built-up area remains a safer environment compared to many UK locations, particularly when considering its smaller population and rural context within North Devon.

May 2025 saw a 200% rise in burglary cases, jumping from one to three incidents, a stark contrast to the previous month. This increase coincided with a 100% rise in shoplifting and 'other crime' categories, both of which had previously been absent in the data. Meanwhile, robbery cases fell by 50%, from two to one, and anti-social behaviour dropped by 25%, from eight to six. These fluctuations suggest a shifting balance between property and violent crime, with property-related offences gaining prominence. Criminal damage and arson in South Molton were 33% above the UK average, while anti-social behaviour was 30% below. This divergence highlights the area's unique challenges and strengths in crime prevention. For residents, the 200% increase in burglary may prompt renewed focus on home security measures, particularly as May's longer evenings extend opportunities for such crimes.

South Molton's crime rate rose by 21.8% in May 2025 compared to April, moving from 5.2 to 6.4 per 1,000 residents. This increase, though modest in absolute terms, reflects shifts in crime patterns across the built-up area. On average, one crime was reported per day in May, a figure that contextualises the local impact of criminal activity within the community. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 157 residents, a monthly exposure rate that highlights the relative safety of the area compared to larger urban centres. With a population of 6,136, the area's small size means individual incidents can have a more visible effect on residents. The rate remains 21% below the UK average, underscoring the area's consistent performance in maintaining lower crime levels despite the recent uptick. This contrast with national trends suggests local factors—such as community policing efforts or seasonal dynamics—may be influencing outcomes.