Crime Statistics

Otford and Kemsing Crime Rate

-17.5%year-over-year

Crime is decreasing and LOW in Otford and Kemsing

Otford and Kemsing crime rate is 40.7 per 1,000, significantly safer than the UK average, with a safety score of 91/100.

Overall Crime Rate

40.7
Crimes per 1,000 people
decreasing trend

Property Crime Rate

18.0
Property crimes per 1,000 people
Includes burglary, theft, vandalism

How Otford and Kemsing Compares to UK Average

Overall Crime:40.7vs 93.4 UK avg
-52.7 per 1,000 people
Property Crime:18.0vs 33.2 UK avg
-15.2 per 1,000 people

Otford and Kemsing's crime rate is significantly lower than UK average

Based on population of 7,545 over 12 months

Crime Statistics Summary for Otford and Kemsing

Data last updated: September 2025. Source: Police.uk, ONS, Home Office.

Crime rates per 1,000 people in Otford and Kemsing
Overall Crime Rate40.7 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate18 per 1,000 people
UK Average Crime Rate93.4 per 1,000 people
UK Average Property Crime Rate33.2 per 1,000 people
Safety Score91 out of 100
Population7,545
Trenddecreasing
Comparisonsignificantly lower than UK average
Crime Breakdown by Type in Otford and Kemsing
Crime TypeTotal CountPer 1,000 PeoplePercentage of Total
Violence and sexual offences9312.330%
Vehicle crime38512%
Anti-social behaviour344.511%
Other theft273.69%
Criminal damage and arson243.28%
Burglary2337%
Shoplifting182.46%
Drugs162.15%
Public order131.74%
Other crime111.54%
Possession of weapons40.51%
Robbery30.41%
Bicycle theft20.31%
Theft from the person10.10%

Introduction to Crime in Otford and Kemsing

Otford and Kemsing, a combined built-up area with a population of 7,545, boasts an exceptionally low overall crime rate of 40.7 crimes per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is strikingly lower than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000, positioning the area as one of the safest. The communities have an outstanding safety score of 91 out of 100, far exceeding the UK average of 78. Furthermore, Otford and Kemsing has demonstrated a positive trend, with overall crime decreasing by a significant 17.5% year-over-year. These statistics provide a highly reassuring overview of the safety landscape, highlighting a community where residents can feel exceptionally secure.

Otford and Kemsing Safety Score

91
Safe
Safety Score out of 100

Otford and Kemsing has a good safety score compared to the UK average (78).

0-20
20-40
40-60
60-80
80-100

Most Common Crimes in Otford and Kemsing

#1

Violence and sexual offences

Percentage:30%
Per 1,000:12.3
Total:93
#2

Vehicle crime

Percentage:12%
Per 1,000:5
Total:38
#3

Anti-social behaviour

Percentage:11%
Per 1,000:4.5
Total:34
#4

Other theft

Percentage:9%
Per 1,000:3.6
Total:27
#5

Criminal damage and arson

Percentage:8%
Per 1,000:3.2
Total:24

Protect Against These Threats

scOS security systems are designed to detect and deter the most common crimes in your area, providing 24/7 autonomous protection.

Protect Against These Threats

Crime Type Analysis in Otford and Kemsing

An examination of crime types in Otford and Kemsing reveals that Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 30.3% of all reported crimes, at a rate of 12.3 per 1,000 residents. Vehicle crime is the second most common issue, making up 12.4% of incidents (5.0 per 1,000), followed by Anti-social behaviour at 11.1% (4.5 per 1,000). The property crime rate for the area stands at 18.0 per 1,000 people per year, which is substantially lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes Vehicle crime (12.4%), Other theft (8.8%), Criminal damage and arson (7.8%), Burglary (7.5%), Shoplifting (5.9%), Robbery (1.0%), Bicycle theft (0.7%), and Theft from the person (0.3%). For residents and homeowners, these figures indicate that while overall crime is very low, vehicle security remains a key area of focus, as it contributes significantly to the property crime total. The low rates across the board are a testament to the area's strong community safety.

Crime Types Breakdown

Violence and sexual offences
93 incidents (12.3 per 1,000)
Vehicle crime
38 incidents (5 per 1,000)
Anti-social behaviour
34 incidents (4.5 per 1,000)
Other theft
27 incidents (3.6 per 1,000)
Criminal damage and arson
24 incidents (3.2 per 1,000)
Burglary
23 incidents (3 per 1,000)
Shoplifting
18 incidents (2.4 per 1,000)
Drugs
16 incidents (2.1 per 1,000)
Public order
13 incidents (1.7 per 1,000)
Other crime
11 incidents (1.5 per 1,000)
Possession of weapons
4 incidents (0.5 per 1,000)
Robbery
3 incidents (0.4 per 1,000)
Bicycle theft
2 incidents (0.3 per 1,000)
Theft from the person
1 incidents (0.1 per 1,000)

Crime Rate Trend

↓ 35.5% change(over 12 months)
Otford and Kemsing
UK Average

Compare Otford and Kemsing with similar populations

Otford and Kemsing has a 56.4% lower crime rate than the UK average.

Crime Trends in Otford and Kemsing

Otford and Kemsing has experienced a highly positive trend in its crime statistics, with a substantial decrease of 17.5% in overall crime year-over-year. This significant reduction underscores successful efforts in enhancing local safety. Reviewing the monthly trend data, crime rates have shown some fluctuations. For instance, March 2025 saw a rate of 5.2 per 1,000, while August 2025 recorded a particularly low rate of 1.9 per 1,000. These variations could be attributed to seasonal factors or specific local events influencing crime levels. Despite these monthly changes, the overarching trend is clearly downwards, offering residents a highly reassuring outlook on the communities' ongoing commitment to safety and improvement.

When Do Crimes Happen in Otford and Kemsing?

Understanding peak crime times helps you stay vigilant and secure your property when it matters most.

Simulated Data

This heatmap shows estimated crime patterns based on Otford and Kemsing's crime statistics, crime type distribution, and general knowledge of when different crimes typically occur. This is not real historical data for specific times.

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Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Crime Likelihood:
Very Low
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

Pro Tip: Burglaries peak on weekday evenings (6pm-midnight) and during work hours (10am-3pm) when homes appear empty. scOS smart security stays alert around the clock — detecting threats instantly, whether you're home or away.

What Types of Crime Happen When in Otford and Kemsing?

Different crimes occur at different times. This breakdown shows which crime types dominate each time period.

Based on Crime-Type Weighted Model

Morning

6am - 12pm

Theft38%
Vehicle Crime25%
Other21%
Burglary15%
Violence0%

Morning hours are characterised by higher theft and vehicle crime, often related to commuting.

Afternoon

12pm - 6pm

Theft43%
Burglary27%
Other20%
Vehicle Crime9%
Violence0%

Afternoon hours see theft peak, likely linked to increased commercial and pedestrian activity.

Evening

6pm - 12am

Other36%
Vehicle Crime26%
Burglary23%
Theft16%
Violence0%

Evening experiences a diverse crime pattern, with 'Other' crimes becoming most prevalent.

Night

12am - 6am

Vehicle Crime52%
Burglary23%
Other18%
Theft6%
Violence0%

Night-time is dominated by vehicle crime and burglary, suggesting overnight vulnerability.

Simulated Data - Crime-Type Weighted Model

These crime patterns are estimated using the Crime Survey for England and Wales (ONS) time-of-day data, weighted by Otford and Kemsing's specific crime type distribution from Police.uk. This is not real historical data for specific times in Otford and Kemsing, but a model-generated estimate based on the area's crime composition and national timing patterns.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Otford and Kemsing

Analysing when crimes typically occur in Otford and Kemsing provides valuable insights into local safety dynamics. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), theft (38%) and vehicle crime (25%) are notable, likely linked to commuter activity and commercial areas opening. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees theft peak at 43%, potentially driven by increased foot traffic and shopping activities. In the evening (6pm-12am), 'Other' crime types become significant (36%), alongside vehicle crime (26%) and burglary (23%), indicating a broader range of incidents as people return home and social activities increase. Night-time (12am-6am) is dominated by vehicle crime at 52%, coupled with a notable 23% for burglary. This pattern clearly indicates that properties and vehicles are particularly vulnerable during overnight hours when areas are less active. Understanding these time-based trends can help residents tailor their security measures effectively.

Crime Rates Near Sevenoaks

Dartford

8.6 miles

110.0
per 1,000
High Risk

Gravesham

10.6 miles

102.3
per 1,000
High Risk

Bromley

7.7 miles

88.6
per 1,000
Moderate Risk

Bexley

10.2 miles

77.3
per 1,000
Low Risk

Tandridge

11.7 miles

68.7
per 1,000
Low Risk

Tonbridge and Malling

7.8 miles

66.8
per 1,000
Low Risk

Crime Rate Risk Levels

Very Low
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

Explore Nearby Areas

Shoreham

1.5 miles

0.0
per 1,000
Very Low Risk

Sepham Heath

1.9 miles

0.0
per 1,000
Very Low Risk

Dunton Green

1.6 miles

36.1
per 1,000
Very Low Risk

Seal

2.0 miles

43.3
per 1,000
Very Low Risk

Police Response Times in Otford and Kemsing

How quickly do police respond to emergencies?

Grade 1 (Immediate)

Emergency 999 calls requiring immediate attendance — crimes in progress, threat to life, or serious injury.

Grade 2 (Priority)

Serious incidents needing prompt response but no immediate threat to life — recent crimes, vulnerable victims.

Grade 1 - Immediate

Emergency Response

19 minActual
Actual
19 min
Target
15 min
UK Average
15 min
4 min slower than target

Grade 2 - Priority

Priority Response

1h 41mActual
Actual
1h 41m
Target
1h
UK Average
1h
41 min slower than target

Active Officers

4,168

Each = 500 officers

Police Stations

Pending

Station count data is being collected

Why Response Time Matters

The average burglary takes just 8-10 minutes. Even when police respond quickly, burglars are often gone before anyone arrives.

scOS spots trouble the moment it starts — your lights come on, sirens sound, and you get an alert on your phone. Burglars don't stick around when they've lost the element of surprise.

2024 data
Mean response times
Source: FOI Request

How Does Otford and Kemsing Compare?

Sprotbrough

66.8
crimes per 1,000 people
64.1% higher than Otford and Kemsing

Cromer

72.4
crimes per 1,000 people
77.9% higher than Otford and Kemsing

Tadcaster

54.6
crimes per 1,000 people
34.2% higher than Otford and Kemsing

Arnside

5.1
crimes per 1,000 people
87.5% safer than Otford and Kemsing

Crime Comparison with Nearby Built-Up Areas

To provide a comprehensive understanding of safety in Otford and Kemsing, it's beneficial to compare its crime statistics with those of neighbouring built-up areas. Otford and Kemsing, with an exceptionally low overall crime rate of 40.7 per 1,000 residents, stands out as one of the safest communities in the region. When compared to nearby Shoreham, Dunton Green (36.1 per 1,000), Sepham Heath, and Seal (43.3 per 1,000), Otford and Kemsing maintains a consistently low crime rate. This comparison highlights that Otford and Kemsing, while being a larger built-up area than some, successfully maintains a safety profile comparable to or even better than its immediate smaller neighbours, positioning it as a highly desirable and secure place to live.

Why scOS Is Different From Every Other Security System

Traditional systems watch crime happen. scOS stops it from happening.

Sees Everything At Once

AI watches all cameras simultaneously. Never blinks. Never looks away. Impossible to sneak past.

Property line intervention

Knows Every Vehicle

DVLA verification catches fake plates instantly. Suspicious car? You know before they park.

Stop them early

Learns Your Patterns

Recognizes family, delivery times, normal routines. Only alerts you to real threats.

Zero false alarms

Traditional CCTV

  • •Records crime as it happens
  • •Motion alerts for every shadow, leaf, or car passing by
  • •You discover break-in hours later or are in the middle of it
  • •Hope police can use the footage

scOS Intelligence

  • •Stops threats before they reach your door
  • •Intelligent motion alerts — only notifies you of real threats
  • •Lights and speakers respond autonomously
  • •They turn away before you even know

What used to be impossible is now effortless.

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Protecting Your Property in Otford and Kemsing

Despite Otford and Kemsing's very low property crime rate of 18.0 per 1,000 residents, proactive security measures remain a sensible consideration for homeowners. Traditional security cameras typically record events after a crime has occurred, providing evidence but not preventing the intrusion itself. This limitation is addressed by advanced AI-powered home security operating systems like scOS. Designed for proactive protection, scOS detects threats at your property boundary, stopping criminals before they can gain entry. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures comprehensive surveillance, and features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly identify suspicious vehicles. By learning your household's routines, scOS intelligently filters out false alarms, focusing on real threats. When a threat is detected, scOS can trigger an autonomous response, using lights and speakers to deter intruders, effectively destroying their element of surprise within seconds. For residents seeking to actively prevent property crime, scOS provides a professional-grade solution that goes beyond mere recording, offering true peace of mind through real-time intervention.

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Understanding Our Data

How we source and verify crime information for Otford and Kemsing

4,392+
Areas Covered
19M+
Crime Records
100%
Official Sources

Understanding the Calculations

The crime rate represents the number of recorded incidents per thousand residents in Otford and Kemsing. This approach ensures fair comparison regardless of area population size.

Our Information

All statistics come from official government sources: Police.uk provides recorded crime data while the Office for National Statistics supplies population figures. We aggregate data at multiple geographic levels for context.

Formula Used

Crimes per 1k residents = (Total incidents ÷ Population) × 1,000

Our statistics derive entirely from UK government databases:

  • Police.uk — Crime records from territorial police forces across England and Wales (43 total)
  • Office for National Statistics — Population statistics and the Crime Survey for England and Wales
  • Home Office — Nationwide crime data and official policy records
  • FOI Requests — Additional statistics obtained via formal requests to police services
Our system covers 4,392+ areas across England and Wales, including major urban centers, towns, and administrative regions. Data for Greater Manchester is currently unavailable. We refresh statistics immediately when official sources publish updates (generally every 8 weeks) and maintain archives for historical analysis.
Police.ukONSHome OfficeFOI

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Last updated: September 2025

New data is released by Police.uk approximately every two months

Spotted incorrect data or something that doesn't look right? Let us know and we'll investigate.

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