Buckfastleigh Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Buckfastleigh, Devon, indicate an annual crime rate of 64.6 per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a comparatively safer environment. However, understanding the specific types of crime and trends is crucial for assessing the overall safety of the area. While the overall rate is relatively favourable, certain crime categories warrant attention. Examining these figures alongside the safety score of 84/100 allows for a more nuanced understanding of the community’s safety profile.

Buckfastleigh's crime statistics reveal a concerning prevalence of violence and sexual offences, accounting for nearly half (48.5%) of all reported crimes at 95 incidents. This represents a significant 31.3 crimes per 1,000 residents, exceeding the UK average. Criminal damage and arson also contribute notably to the area’s crime profile, with 31 incidents reported, or 10.2 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour follows, accounting for 16 incidents (5.3 per 1,000). Overall property crime in Buckfastleigh stands at 15.8 per 1,000 residents, which is notably higher than the UK average. This includes other theft, public order offences, drugs related crimes, and possession of weapons, highlighting a varied range of criminal activity within the community. Shoplifting, while less frequent, also appears with 2 incidents.

Crime rates in Buckfastleigh have been decreasing year-on-year, with a reduction of 5.8%. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 reveals fluctuations, with a noticeable peak in June 2025 (6.9 per 1,000/month) and a significant drop in November and December 2025 (3.3 and 2.3 per 1,000/month respectively). This downward trend indicates a positive shift in community safety, although continued vigilance and proactive measures remain essential to sustain this progress. The sharp decline in November and December is a welcome development, suggesting potential impacts from targeted interventions or seasonal factors.

How To Keep Safe in Buckfastleigh

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's wise to be particularly aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Consider travelling in groups or using well-lit routes. Due to concerns around criminal damage, secure your property and valuables, and report any suspicious activity promptly. With theft being a recurring issue, be mindful of your belongings in public places. Finally, remember to keep your home and vehicle locked, and consider joining or supporting local neighbourhood watch schemes to enhance community safety.

Crime in Buckfastleigh tends to be distributed fairly evenly throughout the day. Burglary is slightly more prevalent during the night (12am-6am), accounting for 4% of incidents. Violence and sexual offences are more concentrated during the evening (6pm-12am), particularly on weekend nights. Theft is most common during commercial hours (9am-5pm), reflecting the increased activity during the day. Vehicle crime is also more likely to occur overnight (11pm-6am), suggesting opportunities when vehicles are parked unattended. Overall, while patterns exist, a consistent level of vigilance is recommended at all times.

Buckfastleigh's crime rate is comparatively lower than Ashburton (41.2 per 1,000) and Dartington (43.8 per 1,000), though similar to Broadhempston (0.0 per 1,000). These neighbouring areas offer a point of comparison, highlighting Buckfastleigh’s relative position within the wider Teignbridge district. The differing rates demonstrate the variable nature of crime across the region and the importance of focusing on local trends.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred, offering little in the way of prevention. If you’re looking for proactive protection in Buckfastleigh, consider a system like scOS. scOS uses AI to detect threats at your property boundary – a vehicle loitering, an unfamiliar person approaching – before a crime can take place. Its multi-camera intelligence watches all angles simultaneously, instantly verifying any suspicious activity, including vehicle plate recognition. The visible deterrence of professional-grade security, combined with the element of surprise created by scOS’s autonomous response – lights activating, speakers engaging – can often be enough to make potential burglars move on. The 60-second decision window for many burglars is critical – scOS disrupts that decision-making process.