Salcombe Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Salcombe, Devon, reveal a crime rate of 49.0 per 1,000 residents over the period of January 2025 to December 2025. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a relatively safer environment. However, the recorded increase of 13.7% year-on-year highlights a concerning trend. While the safety score stands at a respectable 88 out of 100, it’s crucial to understand the specific types of crimes occurring and the factors contributing to the rising numbers. This detailed analysis will provide a clearer picture of safety in Salcombe and offer practical advice for residents.

The data for Salcombe, Devon, reveals a concerning distribution of criminal activity. Violence and sexual offences constitute the most significant portion of recorded crimes, accounting for 34.5% of incidents (20 crimes). Anti-social behaviour follows closely, representing 22.4% of incidents (13 crimes). Other theft, including shoplifting and minor burglaries, accounts for 17.2% (10 crimes). While criminal damage and arson, public order offences, and vehicle crime are less frequent, they collectively contribute to the overall crime picture. The relatively low number of burglaries, at just 3 incidents, may reflect the area's demographic profile and community vigilance, though this does not diminish the importance of preventative measures.

The observed 13.7% increase in crime year-on-year is a concerning trend for Salcombe. Monthly data reveals fluctuating crime rates throughout 2025. A noticeable peak occurred in August 2025, with a rate of 15.2 per 1,000 residents, potentially influenced by seasonal tourism. Rates also saw increases in February (4.2 per 1,000), July (5.1 per 1,000) and October (4.2 per 1,000), indicating periods of heightened criminal activity. Understanding the underlying factors driving these fluctuations, such as seasonal changes, local events, and community initiatives, is crucial for developing effective crime prevention strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Salcombe

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially when out alone at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and consider travelling with a companion. Due to concerns about anti-social behaviour, report any suspicious activity to the local authorities promptly. With other theft being a common occurrence, secure your valuables and be mindful of your belongings in public places. Finally, ensure your home and vehicle are securely locked, even when you're just stepping out for a moment. Consider investing in visible security measures to deter potential criminals.

Criminal activity in Salcombe exhibits a distinct temporal pattern. Burglaries are most frequently reported during the evening hours (6pm - 12am), accounting for 20% of incidents. The afternoon (12pm - 6pm) sees a high proportion of theft incidents, mirroring commercial activity. While violence and sexual offences are less prevalent during specific hours, they tend to concentrate during the evening and night, particularly during weekends. This suggests a correlation between increased social activity and a heightened risk of these crimes. It’s vital to remain vigilant during these peak periods and consider personal safety measures accordingly.

Comparing Salcombe’s crime rates to its neighbours, the picture is varied. Malborough exhibits a lower crime rate of 32.4 per 1,000, while West Charleton reports a remarkably low rate of 0.0 per 1,000. Kingsbridge, however, has a significantly higher rate of 85.7 per 1,000, demonstrating the localised nature of crime patterns within South Hams. Understanding these differences can provide valuable context when assessing overall safety levels in the region.

Traditional CCTV systems often serve as a passive record of criminal activity, capturing footage after an incident has occurred. However, the rise in sophisticated crime demands a proactive approach. Systems like scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, offer a fundamentally different level of protection. By utilising multi-camera intelligence and pattern learning, scOS detects potential threats at the property boundary, such as unfamiliar vehicles or individuals, before a break-in can occur. The visible presence of professional-grade equipment, combined with the autonomous response features – lights activating, speakers engaging – creates a powerful deterrent, often prompting potential intruders to move on within those crucial first 60 seconds. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively preventing threats at your property line is another.