Carterton Crime Rate

Carterton, within West Oxfordshire, presents a crime rate of 43.4 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, as recorded between January and December 2025. This figure is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment compared to the national picture. However, the recent trend indicates an upward trajectory in crime rates, increasing by a concerning 8.1% year-on-year. This rise warrants careful consideration, particularly when viewed alongside the specific types of crimes prevalent within the area. While Carterton may be comparatively safe, the recent increase suggests an evolving situation that residents should be aware of.

Carterton's crime data reveals a concerning prevalence of violence and sexual offences, accounting for nearly half (49.2%) of all recorded crimes. These offences represent 399 incidents, significantly outpacing other crime categories. Anti-social behaviour also contributes notably to the overall crime rate, with 109 reported incidents. Shoplifting, while lower in frequency, remains a persistent issue with 71 reported cases. Criminal damage and arson are also present, alongside public order offences and other forms of theft. Understanding the demographics and local environment of Carterton—a largely military-dependent community—may offer some insight into these trends, though a comprehensive analysis would require further investigation into factors such as socioeconomic conditions and community engagement initiatives.

Crime in Carterton has been on an upward trajectory, with an 8.1% increase observed year-on-year. This rise is reflected in monthly data, showing a pattern of fluctuations but consistently exceeding initial levels. For instance, crime rates were 2.4 per 1,000 in January 2025, climbing to 4.1 per 1,000 in December 2025. While there are periods of relative stability, such as in April and August, the overall trend indicates a concerning escalation in criminal activity. This warrants increased vigilance and proactive crime prevention measures throughout the community.

How To Keep Safe in Carterton

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s vital to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. Consider travelling in groups or utilising well-lit routes. Due to the incidence of shoplifting, remain vigilant when shopping and keep valuables secure. Secure your vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, as vehicle crime remains a factor. Finally, ensure your home is well-lit and that doors and windows are locked, especially during the evening hours.

Crime patterns in Carterton fluctuate throughout the day. Burglary attempts are most frequent during the afternoon (12pm-6pm), while vehicle crime peaks overnight (12am-6am). The evening hours (6pm-12am) see a rise in incidents, particularly those involving theft. While violence is relatively low during the day, it tends to be more prevalent during the evening and night. It's important to note these are trends and not guarantees, but awareness of these patterns can help you make informed decisions about your personal safety.

Carterton’s crime rate contrasts significantly with its neighbouring villages. Areas such as Brize Norton, Black Bourton, Alvescot, and Kencot all report zero recorded crimes. This stark difference highlights Carterton’s position as a more populated and potentially more complex area, experiencing a higher level of reported incidents compared to the surrounding rural communities. Understanding this disparity is crucial for assessing the specific challenges and opportunities for crime prevention within Carterton itself.

Traditional CCTV systems often record events after they occur, providing footage for investigation. However, in Carterton, where violence and theft are concerns, proactive prevention is key. scOS offers a fundamentally different approach. Using AI, scOS detects potential threats at your property boundary – fake plates are instantly identified, and your family and routines are recognised, only alerting you to genuine risks. The visible presence of scOS acts as a deterrent, often prompting potential intruders to move on before any crime is committed. Reading crime statistics is one thing; scOS helps you actively prevent those statistics from impacting your home.