Winkleigh Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Winkleigh, covering the period from January to December 2025, paint a picture of an area facing notable challenges. With a crime rate of 42.4 per 1,000 residents annually, Winkleigh’s safety score of 89/100 places it slightly above the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000 and below the UK average safety score of 79/100. The area has experienced a concerning 32.9% increase in crime year-on-year, necessitating a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to this trend. While violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent concern, burglary and criminal damage also represent significant challenges for the local community. This page aims to provide a detailed breakdown of these statistics and offer practical advice for residents.

The crime landscape in Winkleigh, as reflected in data from January to December 2025, reveals a concerning prevalence of violence and sexual offences, accounting for 47.3% of recorded crimes. There were 44 incidents of this nature, significantly impacting the area's overall safety perception. Burglary represents the second most common crime, with 12 recorded incidents (12.9%), followed closely by criminal damage and arson (11 incidents, 11.8%). While other theft accounts for 5.4% of recorded crime, vehicle crime remains comparatively low at 1.1%. The overall property crime rate stands at 14.1 per 1,000 residents, a figure that requires careful consideration within the context of the area's demographics and local activities. Understanding these nuances is vital for developing targeted preventative measures.

The 32.9% year-on-year increase in crime rates within Winkleigh represents a significant concern. Monthly data reveals fluctuations throughout 2025, with a peak in May (5.9 per 1,000) and a relative lull in February (1.4 per 1,000). While October also saw a low of 1.4 per 1,000, the overall upward trend remains evident, underscoring the need for proactive measures and community engagement to address the root causes of this increase.

How To Keep Safe in Winkleigh

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s essential to be vigilant in public spaces. Walk with a friend or in well-lit areas, particularly at night. Due to the frequency of burglaries, ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, even when you are at home. Consider installing an alarm system and using security lighting. Be mindful of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police. Finally, protect your vehicles by parking in well-lit areas and ensuring valuables are out of sight.

Crime in Winkleigh tends to fluctuate throughout the day. Burglary is most prevalent during the afternoon hours (12pm - 6pm), accounting for 46% of incidents. Violence and sexual offences see a spike in the evening (6pm - 12am) and night (12am - 6am), particularly on weekends. Theft tends to be more concentrated during commercial hours, whilst vehicle crime is more likely to occur overnight. Overall, understanding these patterns can help residents remain more aware of potential risks at different times of the day.

Compared to neighbouring areas, Winkleigh's crime rate of 42.4 per 1,000 is slightly higher than Dolton (0.0 per 1,000) but lower than Chulmleigh (40.2 per 1,000) and Hatherleigh (50.5 per 1,000). These comparisons highlight the varying levels of crime across the region and underscore the importance of localised safety strategies.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred, offering little in the way of prevention. Reading crime statistics, like those for Winkleigh, is one thing. Actually stopping threats at your property line is another. Systems like scOS offer a proactive approach, utilising AI to detect potential threats – such as unfamiliar vehicles or individuals – before they even reach your property. scOS’s multi-camera intelligence monitors all angles simultaneously, and its DVLA vehicle verification feature instantly flags suspicious vehicles. The system learns your family’s routines and recognises deliveries, only alerting you to genuine threats, creating an element of surprise for any potential intruders. The visible presence of scOS signals a serious level of protection, often deterring criminals before they even attempt to act – the right security system makes that 60-second decision easy - they move on.