Okehampton Crime Rate August 2025 | Monthly Statistics

In August 2025, Okehampton's crime rate stood at 8.3 per 1,000 residents, placing it 2.5% above the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. This rate translates to a 1-in-120 chance of experiencing a crime over the course of the month for any given resident. The most prevalent crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 57.5% of all reported incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (21.3%) and public order offences (6.3%). These figures highlight a stark contrast to the UK-wide profile, where violence and sexual offences constitute 67% of all crimes, compared to Okehampton's 57.5%. The seasonal context of August—as a peak holiday month—likely contributes to heightened levels of violent crime, potentially linked to increased foot traffic in the town's core areas or transient populations. Conversely, property-related crimes such as shoplifting and vehicle crime were significantly below UK averages, with shoplifting at 68% below the national rate. This may reflect the area's relatively low retail density or effective local deterrents. The data suggests a combination of local characteristics and broader national trends, with Okehampton's crime profile shaped by its rural setting, seasonal tourism patterns, and community dynamics.

August 2025 saw a 53.3% increase in violence and sexual offences, rising from 30 to 46 incidents—a shift that underscores the need for targeted community safety measures. This surge aligns with the month's status as a peak holiday period, where increased visitor numbers and transient populations may amplify tensions or opportunities for conflict. Conversely, shoplifting incidents dropped by 75%, falling from 8 to 2, a decline that could be attributed to heightened policing efforts or seasonal retail closures. Vehicle crime surged by 100%, jumping from 0 to 2 incidents—a sudden spike that may reflect changes in local parking patterns or increased vehicle presence during the holiday season. When compared to the UK average, Okehampton's violent crime rate was 67% higher, while anti-social behaviour was 23% above the national average. However, public order offences were 14% below the UK rate, suggesting that local authorities may have effectively managed disturbances in public spaces. For residents, the most immediate takeaway is the significant rise in violent crime, which could prompt increased vigilance in public areas and community engagement initiatives to address underlying factors.

Okehampton's crime rate in August 2025 (8.3 per 1,000) marked a 4.8% decline from the previous month's rate of 8.7 per 1,000, indicating a modest but notable reduction in overall criminal activity. On a daily basis, the area experienced an average of three crimes per day—a figure that, while not alarming, underscores the need for consistent community oversight. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 120 residents, a statistic that provides a tangible sense of risk for local households. This monthly exposure rate is particularly relevant for families and individuals considering long-term residency or investment in the area. The population context further highlights that, despite the 2.5% increase above the UK average, Okehampton's crime rate remains within a manageable range compared to larger urban centres. The decline in violent crime from July, coupled with the sharp drop in shoplifting, suggests that targeted interventions or seasonal factors may have contributed to this downward trend. However, the rise in vehicle crime and violence necessitates a nuanced approach, balancing local initiatives with broader national strategies to address these specific challenges.