Rural Torbay Crime Rate

Rural Torbay presents a complex safety profile, with an overall crime rate of 110.5 per 1,000 people. This figure is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6, resulting in a safety score of 74/100, which sits below the national average of 79. Despite these statistics, the area is experiencing a positive trend, with total crime decreasing by 8.1% year-over-year. The high crime rate is significantly influenced by an unusually high volume of shoplifting and theft, which may be concentrated in specific commercial pockets within the otherwise rural landscape. The following sections offer a detailed breakdown of these figures, including seasonal trends and practical advice to help residents and business owners navigate the local environment safely.

Rural Torbay experiences a unique crime profile, with violence and sexual offences being the most frequent category, accounting for 40.5% of all incidents (180 cases). Notably, shoplifting is exceptionally high for a rural area, representing 26.3% of total crime with 117 reported cases. Anti-social behaviour is the third most common issue, with 45 cases (10.1%).

Property crime—comprising burglary, robbery, theft from the person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft—is a significant concern here, with a combined rate of 47.4 per 1,000 people. This is notably higher than the UK average property crime rate. Within this, shoplifting and 'other theft' (25 cases) are major factors. Burglary is less common, with only 7 incidents (1.6% of total crime), while vehicle crime accounted for 10 incidents. The high property crime rate, driven largely by theft and shoplifting, suggests that local businesses and residents in more accessible parts of Rural Torbay face a persistent risk of opportunistic crime. For homeowners, while burglary is statistically rare, the overall volume of theft and criminal damage (25 cases) highlights the importance of maintaining vigilant property security.

The crime trend in Rural Torbay is currently decreasing, with an 8.1% year-over-year drop in total incidents. Monthly data for 2025 shows a somewhat volatile pattern, with the crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuating between a low of 5.7 in February and a peak of 11.9 in June. This early summer peak suggests a seasonal increase in activity as the weather improves and visitor numbers likely rise.

Following the June high, the rate remained relatively high through the summer before dipping to 8.0 in October. The year ended with a slight rise back to 10.2 in December. Despite these monthly fluctuations, the overall 8.1% decrease is a positive sign for the area. For residents and local business owners, this downward trend suggests that while the overall rate remains above the UK average, the volume of crime is being reduced. This could be due to more effective local policing or improved community security measures, providing a more stable environment than in the previous year.

How To Keep Safe in Rural Torbay

The most common crime in Rural Torbay is violence and sexual offences, accounting for 40.5% of incidents. However, the area also has a very high rate of shoplifting, which makes up over 26% of all recorded crime. This dual profile requires both personal and business-focused safety strategies.

For residents, maintaining situational awareness in busier areas is key. If you are out in the evening, stick to well-lit paths and avoid walking alone in isolated rural spots. Anti-social behaviour is also a factor, so staying connected with local community groups or a Neighbourhood Watch can help keep you informed about local issues.

For local business owners, the high shoplifting rate (29.1 per 1,000) is a major concern. Implementing robust retail security, such as clear sightlines, staff training, and high-quality surveillance, is essential. For homeowners, while burglary is rare, the high overall theft rate suggests that you should never leave tools, bicycles, or other valuables unsecured in gardens or open outbuildings. Ensuring that your property is well-lit and appears occupied can deter opportunistic thieves who may be operating in the area.

Crime in Rural Torbay shows significant shifts in type depending on the time of day. During the morning (6am - 12pm) and afternoon (12pm - 6pm), theft is the dominant issue, accounting for 55% and 57% of crimes respectively. This high concentration during daylight hours is likely linked to the area's high shoplifting rate, occurring when businesses are open and footfall is highest.

As the day transitions into the evening (6pm - 12am), 'other' crimes—including anti-social behaviour—become the primary concern, making up 52% of incidents. However, the night-time period (12am - 6am) sees a sharp change in the proportional risk. While overall crime volume is lower, vehicle crime rises to 25% and burglary to 16% of the total for that window. This indicates that while commercial theft is a daytime problem, residential properties and vehicles are most vulnerable during the early hours of the morning. Residents are advised to ensure that all property is securely locked away and that vehicles are parked in well-lit or secure areas overnight.

Rural Torbay's crime rate of 110.5 per 1,000 people places it in a unique position within the region. It is significantly more active than the nearby town of Brixham (64.0) and the neighbouring urban hub of Paignton (91.1). However, it remains more secure than Torquay, which has a much higher rate of 143.2. These comparisons suggest that Rural Torbay, while containing quieter residential sections, also encompasses areas with high commercial activity or transient populations that drive up theft and shoplifting figures. For those moving to the region, it is important to distinguish between the tranquil rural parts of the area and the specific locations that contribute to these higher-than-average crime statistics.

With a property crime rate of 47.4 per 1,000 people, Rural Torbay has one of the higher theft profiles in the region. In an area where shoplifting and 'other theft' are so prevalent, traditional security systems—which only record footage after an event has started—provide limited protection. For many, a camera notification on their phone only serves as a witness to their own loss.

Proactive AI-powered security from scOS offers a different approach. By using multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's perimeter, scOS identifies potential threats before a crime is committed. For residents and business owners, features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly flag unknown vehicles, while autonomous responses such as floodlight activation and audible warnings can deter an opportunist within seconds. In an area where property crime is a significant factor, moving from reactive recording to proactive prevention is essential. Professional-grade AI doesn't just provide evidence; it actively works to ensure your property is never targeted in the first place, maintaining the security of your home or business in Rural Torbay.