Holsworthy Crime Rate

Despite being one of the safest areas in the UK, Holsworthy's crime data reveals a sharp 56% year-on-year increase in Other theft, a trend that stands out against its otherwise low overall crime rate of 57.1 per 1,000 residents. This rise, while still 14% below the UK average, contrasts with the 64.3% drop in drugs-related crime, highlighting the complexity of local crime dynamics. The town's safety score of 85/100 underscores its overall security, yet the emerging pattern in Other theft deserves closer attention.

Holsworthy is a historic market town in the Torridge district of Devon, known for its rural charm and proximity to the North Devon coast. As a small built-up area with a population of around 4,800, its low crime rates may reflect strong community ties, limited commercial activity, and a compact layout that reduces opportunities for opportunistic crime. However, the rise in Other theft suggests emerging vulnerabilities, possibly linked to increased foot traffic during local events or the presence of unsecured vehicles in residential areas.

Holsworthy's most surprising crime profile lies in the sharp 56% year-on-year increase in Other theft, despite remaining 14% below the UK average. This contrasts with the 61% lower rate of anti-social behaviour, likely driven by the town's small size and community cohesion. Violence and sexual offences, though 10% below the UK average, rose by 15% YoY, possibly reflecting seasonal fluctuations in local nightlife or transient populations. Vehicle crime remains 82% below the UK average, likely due to limited commuter parking and the town's rural character, which deters vehicle-related crimes. The significant drop in drugs-related crime (-64% YoY) may indicate successful local policing or reduced demand in this low-density area.

Holsworthy's crime rate has remained stable at -3.5% year-on-year, with the most striking change being a 64.3% drop in drugs-related crime. This significant decline may reflect reduced demand in the area or successful local policing efforts. Other theft, however, has surged by 56% YoY, despite remaining 14% below the UK average. The monthly trend shows a clear seasonal pattern, peaking in June 2025 at 7.2 per 1,000/month and reaching its lowest in February 2026 at 1.9 per 1,000/month. This aligns with longer evenings and increased retail activity in the summer months, which may contribute to the rise in theft-related crimes.

How To Keep Safe in Holsworthy

Given Holsworthy's low crime rates, proactive measures should focus on the rising Other theft trend. Secure vehicles in residential areas, especially during the afternoon when theft peaks at 61% of cases. Use scOS's AI boundary detection to monitor for unsecured items left in vehicles or gardens. For burglary prevention, ensure homes are well-lit and avoid leaving valuables visible at night, when 33% of burglaries occur between midnight and 6am. While the town's overall safety score of 85/100 is strong, the 56% YoY increase in Other theft highlights the need for targeted vigilance.

Crime in Holsworthy exhibits distinct patterns across the day. Theft peaks in the afternoon (61% of cases), aligning with the town's retail activity and pedestrian movement during daylight hours. Burglary spikes at night (33% of cases between midnight and 6am), likely due to the town's compact layout and limited surveillance in residential areas. Evening hours (6pm-12am) see a mixed pattern, with 31% of theft cases and 24% of burglaries, possibly linked to after-work activity and reduced visibility. Vehicle crime is concentrated overnight (21% of cases), suggesting targeted opportunism in unsecured parking areas.

While no direct comparisons to neighbouring areas are available, Holsworthy's crime rate of 57.1 per 1,000 is 37.2% below the UK average of 91.0. This places it firmly in the very safe tier with a safety score of 85/100, significantly outperforming the national average. The town's low property crime rate (16.1 per 1,000) and sharp decline in drugs-related crime (-64.3% YoY) further reinforce its position as a secure residential area.

In Holsworthy's low-crime environment, scOS offers proportionate protection against emerging vulnerabilities like the rising trend in Other theft. Its AI-powered boundary detection can identify unsecured vehicles or valuables left in plain sight during the afternoon peak for theft. Automated lighting and speaker systems would deter opportunists targeting homes at night, when burglary spikes at 33% of cases between midnight and 6am. With crime rates 37.2% below the UK average, scOS provides a discreet layer of security without over-protecting a town already benefiting from strong community cohesion.