South Hams Crime Rate

South Hams recorded a crime rate of 46.9 per 1,000 residents between Jan 2025 and Dec 2025. This figure is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a comparatively safer environment. However, it's important to examine the specific types of crimes reported and understand the contributing factors. While crime rates have remained stable over the period, fluctuations occur monthly, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and targeted preventative measures. Understanding these nuances provides a more comprehensive view of safety within the district.

South Hams, a predominantly rural district in Devon, experiences crime patterns influenced by its diverse population and varied land use. The area includes coastal communities, market towns, and significant agricultural land. While the rural nature might suggest lower crime rates, the presence of tourism and commuter populations can contribute to specific types of offences, such as burglary and theft. Demographic factors, including the age profile and socio-economic variations across different neighbourhoods, also play a role in shaping the local crime landscape. Understanding these underlying factors is essential for a comprehensive assessment of crime statistics.

The most prevalent crimes in South Hams during the period Jan 2025 to Dec 2025 were violence and sexual offences, accounting for 41.8% of all reported crimes. These were followed by anti-social behaviour (15.9%), and criminal damage and arson (10.3%). Overall property crime, which includes burglary, theft, and criminal damage, totalled 14.1 per 1,000 residents. While burglary itself is relatively low at 1.7 per 1,000, other theft (including shoplifting) represents a more significant portion of property crime. The data reveals a complex picture, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the specific drivers of each crime type.

Crime rates in South Hams have remained stable, demonstrating a 4.5% year-on-year change between Jan 2025 and Dec 2025. Monthly data reveals fluctuations, with higher rates observed in July (4.9 per 1,000) and lower rates in November (3.4 per 1,000). These variations likely reflect seasonal factors and specific local events. The overall stability suggests that ongoing crime prevention efforts are having a positive impact, although continued monitoring and adaptation are essential.

Compared to neighbouring areas such as Plymouth, Torbay, Teignbridge, West Devon, Exeter and Mid Devon, South Hams demonstrates a consistently lower crime rate. This suggests that the district is relatively safe when considered alongside its surrounding regions.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred, offering little in the way of prevention. Reading crime statistics is one thing; proactively stopping threats at your property line is another. Systems like scOS offer a fundamentally different approach. scOS uses AI to learn your property’s routines and identify potential threats before they escalate. For example, the multi-camera intelligence watches all angles simultaneously, while DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles. The visible deterrence of professional-grade equipment and the element of surprise created by autonomous responses – lights activating, speakers engaging – can be enough to make a burglar reconsider. This preventative approach, combined with pattern learning to distinguish family members from potential threats, offers a level of protection beyond what conventional systems can provide.

How To Keep Safe in South Hams

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's vital to remain aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. Consider joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to enhance community vigilance and share information. Secure your home with robust locks and security lighting, and be cautious about sharing personal information online. Finally, report any suspicious activity to the police promptly to help prevent further incidents.