Rural South Hams Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Rural South Hams reveal a crime rate of 39.2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, a figure that sits significantly below the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While this suggests a relatively safe environment, a notable increase of 11.4% year-on-year indicates a concerning trend. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 shows fluctuating crime rates, with peaks observed in February, April, July, and August. This upward trend requires careful consideration, although the lower overall rate compared to the national average provides some reassurance. Understanding the specific crime types and their distribution is crucial for targeted preventative measures and community safety initiatives.

The crime landscape in Rural South Hams is shaped by its rural nature, scattered communities, and occasional influx of visitors. While the overall crime rate is lower than the UK average, the specific types of crime reflect the challenges of a sparsely populated area. Violence and sexual offences represent the most significant proportion of reported crimes, accounting for 44.6% of incidents. This is followed by anti-social behaviour (14.1%), and other theft (10.3%), indicating potential issues related to social cohesion and opportunistic crime. The relatively low rates of burglary and vehicle crime, compared to other crime types, suggest a focus on personal safety and property security within the community. The prevalence of 'other' crimes, including criminal damage and public order offences, highlights the complexities of maintaining order across a geographically dispersed area.

The 11.4% year-on-year increase in crime rates for Rural South Hams is a concerning trend that requires attention. While monthly fluctuations occur, the overall upward trajectory is evident when examining the data from January 2025 to December 2025. January and November show relatively lower rates (around 2.6 per 1,000 per month), while April and July demonstrate peaks (around 3.9 per 1,000 per month). This suggests seasonal variations or specific events contributing to the increase. Further investigation is needed to identify the root causes of this upward trend and implement effective preventative strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Rural South Hams

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, consider joining or forming a local neighbourhood watch scheme. Be mindful of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone, and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Due to the frequent occurrence of anti-social behaviour, ensure your property is well-lit and secure at night. Secure valuables and outbuildings to mitigate the risk of theft, and consider installing an alarm system or security cameras. Finally, be aware of your neighbours and foster a sense of community to enhance overall safety in the area.

Crime in Rural South Hams exhibits distinct patterns throughout the day. Burglary incidents are most frequent during the afternoon (12pm-6pm), while theft tends to peak during commercial hours. Vehicle crime is notably higher during the night (12am-6am), potentially linked to isolated rural roads. Violence and sexual offences, unfortunately, show a tendency to occur during the evening hours (6pm-12am), particularly on weekends. These patterns underscore the importance of heightened vigilance and targeted preventative measures at specific times and locations.

Compared to neighbouring areas within South Hams, Rural South Hams demonstrates a lower overall crime rate. However, the specific nature of rural crime, such as potential issues with agricultural theft and isolated properties, requires tailored security measures. Areas with higher population densities generally experience higher crime rates, highlighting the unique challenges faced by sparsely populated rural communities. A detailed comparison reveals that while some nearby villages report higher rates of vehicle crime, Rural South Hams shows a lower incidence of violent crime, reflecting the area's generally peaceful character.

Traditional CCTV systems offer a reactive response – recording footage after a crime has occurred. Reading crime statistics for Rural South Hams, it's clear that proactive protection is essential. scOS offers a fundamentally different approach, utilising AI to detect threats at your property boundary before they escalate. The system's multi-camera intelligence watches your entire property simultaneously, distinguishing between family members, deliveries, and genuine threats. DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles, and pattern learning allows the system to recognise your routines. This creates an element of surprise for potential intruders, often deterring them entirely. The visible presence of scOS signals a serious level of protection, making that crucial 60-second decision easy – they move on.