Torridge Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Torridge

Torridge reports an overall crime rate of 56.4 per 1,000 people per year, significantly lower than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. This translates to a strong safety score of 86 out of 100, indicating Torridge is considerably safer compared to the national average of 78. However, the latest figures show an increasing trend in crime, with a 10.2% rise year-over-year. Understanding these statistics provides valuable context for residents and helps to highlight key areas for community focus and prevention efforts within the region.

About Torridge

Torridge, a predominantly rural local authority district, encompasses a mix of market towns, villages, and coastal areas in North Devon. Its characteristics, including a lower population density compared to urban centres and a reliance on agriculture and tourism, contribute to its notably lower crime rates. While the district benefits from its tranquil environment, the presence of small commercial hubs and visitor attractions can influence certain crime types. The relatively stable, though increasing, crime figures reflect a community with strong local ties, yet also one susceptible to the broader economic and social factors that can impact crime trends, particularly in its more populated areas like Bideford and Great Torrington.

Crime Type Analysis in Torridge

The most prevalent crime types in Torridge are Violence and sexual offences, Anti-social behaviour, and Criminal damage and arson. Violence and sexual offences account for 43.5% of all crimes, with 1712 incidents recorded, equating to 24.5 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common, making up 17.8% of crimes with 702 incidents (10.1 per 1,000), often impacting community quality of life. Criminal damage and arson follow, representing 9.6% of the total with 378 incidents (5.4 per 1,000).

Overall property crime, which includes burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, stands at 15.0 per 1,000 people per year in Torridge. This is substantially lower than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. For residents and homeowners, these figures suggest that while personal safety remains a primary concern due to the high proportion of violence and sexual offences, the risk of property-related crimes is comparatively low, though vigilance is always advised.

Crime Trends in Torridge

Torridge has experienced an increasing crime trend, with a 10.2% rise in total crimes year-over-year. Examining the monthly crime rate per 1,000 residents reveals fluctuations throughout the year. The crime rate saw a dip towards the end of 2024, reaching 3.7 in December, before rising in early 2025 to 5.0 in March, 5.1 in April, and peaking at 5.4 in May. Subsequently, rates showed some variability, settling at 4.6 in September 2025. This pattern suggests a seasonal influence, with higher rates observed in spring and early summer months. For residents, this upward trend, especially in specific periods, indicates a need for increased awareness and potentially targeted community safety initiatives to address the rising figures.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When comparing Torridge to its neighbouring local authority districts, a regional context emerges. Torridge's overall crime rate of 56.4 per 1,000 is lower than that of North Devon, West Devon, Mid Devon, and Teignbridge, suggesting a generally safer environment within its administrative boundaries. Compared to larger urban centres like Exeter and Plymouth, Torridge maintains a significantly lower crime rate, highlighting its more rural and tranquil character. Its property crime rate of 15.0 per 1,000 also stands favourably against these areas, providing reassurance for homeowners. This regional comparison solidifies Torridge's position as one of the safer areas in the wider Devon region, although understanding the specific nuances of each local area is crucial for a complete picture.

Protecting Your Property in Torridge

Given Torridge's relatively low, yet increasing, property crime rate of 15.0 per 1,000, proactive home security measures are a sensible consideration for residents. While traditional CCTV systems can record incidents, they often provide footage after a burglary has occurred. For true peace of mind and effective crime prevention, a proactive approach is essential.

Consider advanced solutions like scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system designed to prevent crime before it happens. Unlike reactive systems, scOS detects threats at your property boundary using multi-camera intelligence, rather than merely recording a break-in. Features such as DVLA vehicle verification and pattern learning allow it to distinguish between genuine threats and routine activities, reducing false alarms. For residents looking for robust property protection in Torridge, visible deterrence from professional-grade security can make a significant difference; most burglars decide to move on within 60 seconds of encountering serious protection. By focusing on prevention, you are not just documenting a crime, but actively stopping it from occurring.