Ducklington Crime Rate

Ducklington's crime data reveals a sharp 80% year-on-year increase in criminal damage and arson, despite an overall crime rate 42.9% below the UK average. With a safety score of 87/100, the area remains remarkably secure, but the spike in vandalism highlights localized challenges. While property crime is 44.8% below the UK average, the unexpected rise in criminal damage and arson—now 12% above the national rate—suggests a need for targeted community action.

Ducklington is a small built-up area in West Oxfordshire, characterised by its rural setting and proximity to Witney. As a commuter town with a population of 2446, it benefits from a close-knit community and limited urban density. The area's lower crime rate may be attributed to its lower population density and fewer commercial hubs compared to larger towns. However, its proximity to Witney—a nearby area with a higher crime rate—suggests that local socioeconomic factors, such as employment opportunities and housing affordability, could influence crime patterns.

The most surprising finding in Ducklington's crime data is the 12% increase in criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average (7.4 vs 6.6 per 1,000). This rise may be linked to seasonal factors, such as increased outdoor activity in warmer months, or localized issues like vandalism in public spaces. Violence and sexual offences, while 41.7% below the UK average, remain the most common crime type, likely driven by the area's demographic mix and limited nightlife. Public order offences are 22% below the UK average, possibly due to effective community engagement or a smaller population of transient individuals. Anti-social behaviour is 72% below the UK average, which may reflect the area's strong social cohesion and lower levels of transient populations.

Crime in Ducklington has decreased by 13.0% year-on-year, with the most significant drop in violence and sexual offences (-14.5% YoY). However, criminal damage and arson has surged by 80% YoY, reaching 7.4 per 1,000—12% above the UK average. This sharp increase may be attributed to seasonal factors, such as higher outdoor activity in warmer months, or localized community tensions. Monthly trends show a peak in August 2025 (8.2 per 1,000/month), likely influenced by increased social events and extended daylight hours.

How To Keep Safe in Ducklington

Residents should focus on securing property perimeters, especially during evenings when burglary peaks. For criminal damage and arson—12% above the UK average—installing motion-activated lights and using community reporting channels can help. Since theft peaks in the afternoon, avoid leaving valuables unattended in vehicles or on porches. Ducklington's overall safety score of 87/100 means proactive steps, like securing outdoor spaces, can further reduce risks without overcomplicating daily life.

Crime in Ducklington shows distinct patterns by time of day and week. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), likely due to unoccupied parking areas and reduced visibility. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), possibly linked to retail activity or business hours. Burglary is most frequent in the evening (6pm-12am), aligning with typical household activity patterns. Other crimes, such as anti-social behaviour, are most common in the morning (6am-12pm), potentially reflecting early commutes or local disputes. Weekends see higher overall crime rates, particularly on Saturdays, where extended daylight and social events may contribute to increased theft and public order offences.

Compared to nearby Witney, Ducklington's crime rate of 51.9 per 1,000 is 41% lower, reflecting differences in population density and economic activity. Witney's higher rate may be influenced by its larger commercial sector and greater commuter traffic, while Ducklington's lower population and rural character contribute to its safer profile.

For residents concerned about criminal damage and arson—12% above the UK average—scOS offers proactive boundary detection to identify threats before they escalate. Its AI-powered system distinguishes between household activity and potential intrusions, activating lights and speakers to deter offenders. By integrating with existing cameras, scOS provides real-time alerts without gaps in coverage, addressing Ducklington's specific need for targeted property protection.