Moretonhampstead Crime Rate

Moretonhampstead's crime rate of 52.6 per 1,000 residents is 42.2% below the UK average, making it one of the safer areas in the country. Despite a 73.6% year-on-year increase in overall crime, this built-up area remains significantly below national benchmarks. The most notable trend is the sharp rise in anti-social behaviour (+80% YoY), though it still lags behind the UK average by 65%. This data highlights how local factors—such as community dynamics and rural isolation—shape crime patterns distinct from larger urban centres.

Moretonhampstead is a rural built-up area within Teignbridge, characterised by its small population and proximity to natural landscapes. Its low population density and limited commercial activity likely contribute to lower property crime rates. However, the area's social dynamics—such as community cohesion and local events—may influence patterns of anti-social behaviour and violence. Its rural setting may also mean fewer opportunities for shoplifting or vehicle crime compared to urban centres.

The most surprising finding is that anti-social behaviour is rising sharply (+80% YoY) despite remaining 65% below the UK average. This could reflect increased localised tensions or changes in community engagement. Violence and sexual offences, though still 2% below the UK average, have surged by 77.4% YoY. This may be linked to seasonal factors or isolated incidents rather than systemic issues. Property crime remains low (64.2% below UK average), likely due to the area's sparse population and limited commercial spaces. The absence of significant burglary or vehicle crime further supports the idea that Moretonhampstead's rural character deters opportunistic theft.

Moretonhampstead's crime rate has surged by 73.6% year-on-year, driven by a sharp 80% increase in anti-social behaviour. This rise is most pronounced in June 2025, when the monthly rate peaked at 8.6 per 1,000. The trend appears seasonal, with crime spiking in the summer months and declining in winter, likely linked to increased outdoor activity and local events. While all crime types have risen, property crime remains 64.2% below the UK average, suggesting the area's rural character still deters theft. The increase in anti-social behaviour may reflect heightened community interactions during peak tourism seasons, though it remains significantly lower than the UK benchmark.

How To Keep Safe in Moretonhampstead

Residents should focus on mitigating risks tied to the area's rising anti-social behaviour (+80% YoY). Avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles, especially during the peak vehicle crime hours of midnight to 6am. For property crime, consider securing outdoor spaces with motion sensors, as burglary rates (1.1 per 1,000) may rise in isolated areas. During the afternoon (12pm–6pm), when theft peaks (62% of cases), ensure homes are locked and unoccupied spaces are not left accessible. Community vigilance around local events could help address the sharp rise in anti-social behaviour, which remains 65% below the UK average.

Crimes in Moretonhampstead tend to cluster in the afternoon and evening, with theft peaking during the day (57% in mornings, 62% in afternoons) and burglary rising sharply at night (18% between midnight and 6am). This aligns with patterns where daytime theft may target local businesses or homes during peak hours, while nighttime burglary reflects isolated incidents. The lower crime rates in the morning (8% burglary) suggest that the area's quiet early hours deter opportunistic crimes, though vehicle crime spikes overnight (29% between midnight and 6am), possibly linked to isolated parking spots or transient visitors.

Compared to Chagford, Moretonhampstead has a 142% higher crime rate (52.6 per 1,000 vs 21.7 per 1,000). This discrepancy may stem from Chagford's smaller population and more isolated rural setting, which likely reduces opportunities for crimes like anti-social behaviour or violence. Moretonhampstead's proximity to Teignbridge and its built-up character may contribute to higher reported crime, even though all rates remain below the UK average.

In Moretonhampstead, where property crime is 64.2% below the UK average, proactive home security can further reinforce safety, scOS offers AI-driven boundary detection that identifies threats before they reach your property, ideal for deterring opportunistic vehicle crime (1.1 per 1,000) or theft. Its automated lighting and speaker systems can disrupt potential intruders, while its learning algorithms distinguish regular visitors from suspicious activity. With a safety score of 85/100, scOS provides proportionate protection that aligns with Moretonhampstead's low-crime environment, ensuring your home remains secure without overcomplicating daily life.