Presteigne Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Presteigne

Presteigne records an annual crime rate of 57.3 per 1,000 residents, which is notably safer than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area's safety score stands at 86 out of 100, placing it well above the national average of 78. However, recent data indicates an increasing trend in crime, with an 11.9% rise year-over-year. This overview provides essential context for residents and those interested in the detailed crime statistics and evolving patterns within Presteigne.

Crime Type Analysis in Presteigne

The crime profile in Presteigne shows that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 41.3% of all reported incidents, equating to 62 crimes (23.7 per 1,000 residents). Following these, criminal damage and arson represents 13.3% of crimes with 20 incidents (7.6 per 1,000), and burglary makes up 12.0% with 18 incidents (6.9 per 1,000). These figures highlight a significant focus on public safety and personal security concerns within the area.

In terms of property-related crime, Presteigne experiences a rate of 20.2 per 1,000 residents, which is below the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes burglary (18 crimes, 6.9 per 1,000), other theft (8 crimes, 3.0 per 1,000), vehicle crime (2 crimes, 0.8 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (20 crimes, 7.6 per 1,000), robbery (1 crime, 0.4 per 1,000), and shoplifting (4 crimes, 1.5 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these statistics indicate a moderate risk to personal possessions and properties compared to the national average, suggesting a need for vigilance and appropriate security measures.

Crime Trends in Presteigne

An analysis of crime trends in Presteigne reveals an increasing pattern, with an 11.9% rise in total crimes year-over-year. This upward trajectory is a key factor for residents to consider regarding local safety. Examining the monthly crime rate per 1,000 residents, the figures fluctuated, starting at 4.2 in October 2024 and generally rising, reaching a peak of 11.5 in July 2025. While there were dips, such as 1.5 in May 2025 and 2.3 in November 2024, the general trend indicates a consistent increase in reported incidents. This overall growth suggests that crime is becoming more prevalent in the area. For residents, understanding this trend means acknowledging an evolving risk landscape and the potential need for increased vigilance and preventative measures.

Crime Time Patterns in Presteigne

Analysing the time patterns of crime in Presteigne provides insight into when different offences are most likely to occur. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), theft-related offences are prominent at 29%, alongside burglary at 28%, and other crimes at 39%. The afternoon period (12pm-6pm) shows burglary significantly higher at 42%, with theft at 27%. As the day progresses into the evening (6pm-12am), other crimes become the most significant category at 52%, while burglary remains high at 36%. During the night (12am-6am), burglary is extremely high at 48%, with other crimes at 38%, indicating a strong focus on property crime during darker, quieter hours.

Comparison with Nearby Areas

To understand the local crime context of Presteigne, it is beneficial to compare its statistics with nearby communities. Areas such as Norton (Powys), Kington, Knighton, and Lyonshall are settlements within the wider Powys region. Presteigne, being a smaller town, generally experiences lower crime rates compared to larger urban centres, but may share similar rural crime challenges with its immediate neighbours. While specific crime figures will vary, the general pattern is that larger built-up areas tend to have more diverse crime types and higher overall rates due to factors like population density, commercial activity, and transport links. This comparison helps residents to position Presteigne's crime rates within its immediate local environment, highlighting its relatively safer position.

Home Security and Protection

With Presteigne experiencing a property crime rate of 20.2 per 1,000 residents, which is below the UK average, prioritising robust home security is essential. Relying solely on reactive security, such as traditional CCTV cameras that merely record a burglary after it has occurred, offers limited preventative value. The focus should instead be on deterring criminals before they can inflict damage or loss.

Proactive, AI-powered security systems, like scOS, offer a significant advancement in property protection. These systems are engineered to detect threats at the property boundary, intervening in real-time. By leveraging multi-camera intelligence, scOS provides a comprehensive overview, ensuring no blind spots. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly flag suspicious vehicles, and sophisticated pattern learning distinguishes between regular household activities and genuine threats, minimising false alarms. When a threat is identified, the system's autonomous response, including activating lights and engaging speakers, creates an immediate deterrence, often causing burglars to abandon their attempts within their crucial 60-second decision window. This professional-grade approach provides a clear signal that your property is seriously protected, encouraging potential intruders to move on.