Devizes Crime Rate

Devizes's crime rate of 99.4 per 1,000 residents is 9.2% above the UK average, with anti-social behaviour standing out as the most concerning issue. This crime type, at 24.1 per 1,000, is 64% higher than the national rate. While property crime is 13.5% below the UK average, the sharp decline in vehicle crime (-67.2% YoY) and the 35% increase in 'other crime' highlight shifting patterns in the town's security landscape.

Devizes is a historic market town in Wiltshire, known for its vibrant retail sector and commuter population. Its mix of residential areas, small businesses, and tourist attractions creates a unique environment. The presence of a bustling high street likely contributes to higher anti-social behaviour rates, while the town's proximity to rural areas may influence patterns of criminal damage. Economic factors, such as local employment opportunities, also shape the area's crime profile.

The most striking finding in Devizes's crime data is the 64% increase in anti-social behaviour compared to the UK average, with 24.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. This may stem from the town's high foot traffic on the high street, where transient populations and late-night activity create opportunities for disruptive behaviour. Criminal damage and arson, 38% above the UK average at 9.1 per 1,000, could reflect a combination of youth demographics and the presence of older, more vulnerable buildings in the historic core. Property crime, however, is 13.5% below the UK average, with burglary at 2.1 per 1,000—likely due to the town's lower population density compared to urban centres. The sharp decline in vehicle crime (-67.2% YoY) may be attributed to increased CCTV coverage or improved car security measures in parking areas.

Crime in Devizes has remained stable with a 2.9% YoY increase, but several subcategories show significant shifts. Vehicle crime has plummeted by 67.2% YoY, likely due to improved security measures in parking areas. Conversely, 'other crime' has risen by 35% YoY, suggesting unreported incidents or changes in criminal activity. Theft from the person has also dropped by 50% YoY, possibly reflecting increased awareness of personal security. While overall crime is stable, the sharp decline in vehicle crime contrasts with the rise in 'other crime', highlighting the need for targeted interventions in this category.

How To Keep Safe in Devizes

Residents should focus on securing vehicles, as vehicle crime.2 per 1,000, has decreased sharply by 67.2% YoY. Consider using immobilisers or parking in well-lit areas. For anti-social behaviour, which is 64% above the UK average, report persistent disturbances through local community channels. Avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles during late-night hours, as vehicle crime peaks in the evening. Community engagement initiatives, such as Neighbourhood Watch, may help reduce local disturbances.

Crime in Devizes follows distinct daily rhythms. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm) at 50% of reported incidents, aligning with retail hours and foot traffic. Other crime surges at night (12am-6am), reaching 55% of incidents, possibly linked to anti-social behaviour and unmonitored areas. Vehicle crime spikes in the early evening (6pm-12am) at 5%, suggesting opportunistic theft during peak commuting times. The data reveals that 63% of 'other crime' incidents occur overnight, likely reflecting the town's nightlife and social events.

Devizes has a crime rate of 99.4 per 1,000, which is 208% higher than Potterne's rate of 32.3 and 235% higher than Urchfont's rate of 29.7. This stark contrast likely reflects Devizes's larger population, higher commercial activity, and greater density compared to its rural neighbours. Potterne and Urchfont's lower crime rates may be attributed to their smaller, more spread-out communities and lower foot traffic.

For residents in Devizes, where anti-social behaviour is 64% above the UK average, scOS offers tailored security solutions. Its AI-powered boundary monitoring distinguishes between everyday activity and concerning behaviour, triggering automated lights and speakers to deter incidents without requiring manual intervention. The system's cloud storage retains two weeks of footage, which can be critical for evidence collection. A scOS Architect configures the system remotely, ensuring it adapts to Devizes's specific challenges, such as the high foot traffic on the high street that contributes to anti-social behaviour.