South Hams Crime Rate February 2024 | Monthly Statistics

In February 2024, South Hams maintained a crime rate of 3.2 per 1,000 residents, placing it 54.9% below the UK average of 7.1 per 1,000. This figure translates to a daily risk of roughly 10 crimes across the district’s population of 92,148—a rate that, while not negligible, is significantly lower than national benchmarks. The most prevalent crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 40.1% of all reported incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (17.1%) and criminal damage and arson (15.4%). These patterns may reflect the area’s seasonal dynamics, as February—a winter month with reduced outdoor activity—could drive indoor-based crimes such as domestic violence or vandalism. The lower-than-UK-average rates for shoplifting (81% below) and public order offences (80% below) suggest that South Hams’ rural or semi-rural nature, combined with limited commercial hubs, may reduce opportunities for these crimes. However, the prominence of violent offences—despite being 48% below the UK average—raises questions about local factors, such as community tensions or policing priorities, that might influence this category. Seasonally, the month’s low outdoor activity and pre-spring lull may have contributed to a focus on indoor spaces, amplifying conflicts in residential areas or community centres. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions in violent crime prevention, even as the overall rate remains well below national levels.

February 2024 saw notable fluctuations in specific crime categories. Criminal damage and arson surged by 64.3%, rising from 28 to 46 incidents—a spike that may reflect increased indoor activity during winter or targeted vandalism in isolated areas. Anti-social behaviour also climbed by 50%, likely tied to the pre-spring lull in outdoor events and gatherings. Conversely, possession of weapons dropped by 85.7%, from 7 to 1 incident, suggesting a possible reduction in knife crime or improved enforcement. Other theft increased by 17.2%, potentially linked to indoor retail theft or unsecured property during colder months. The breakdown of crime types reveals a stark contrast with UK averages: shoplifting, public order, and vehicle crime all fell below the UK rate by 80% or more, indicating that South Hams’ unique demographics or geography may limit opportunities for these offences. For residents, the 40.1% share of violent crimes—48% below the UK average—suggests a lower risk of personal harm compared to national trends.

South Hams' February 2024 crime rate of 3.2 per 1,000 residents remained stable compared to the previous month (3.3 per 1,000), reflecting a -1.2% change. This consistency suggests no abrupt shifts in crime patterns during the month. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly 10 crimes per day, a figure that, while low, underscores the persistent presence of criminal activity in a relatively small population. Over the course of February, one reported crime occurred for every 308 residents—a ratio that contextualises risk as a monthly aggregate rather than an immediate threat. With a population of 92,148, the low crime rate aligns with the area’s likely rural or semi-rural character, where community cohesion and lower population density may contribute to reduced opportunities for certain crimes. This figure, however, does not account for unreported incidents or variations in policing coverage, which could influence perceived versus recorded safety.