Shoreham-by-Sea Crime Rate December 2024 | Monthly Statistics

December 2024 saw Shoreham-by-Sea maintain a crime rate of 5.1 per 1,000 residents, 28.2% below the UK average of 7.1 per 1,000. This figure reflects a relatively low overall crime profile, though seasonal factors such as Christmas shopping, extended evenings, and empty homes during holiday periods may have influenced patterns. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 26.7% of total crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (15.8%) and shoplifting (15.0%). The area’s crime mix contrasts with UK averages, particularly in shoplifting (40% above UK rate) and drug-related crimes (67% above UK rate). While the overall rate remains low, the sharp rise in drug-related offences and other crime types highlights vulnerabilities tied to the holiday season’s social dynamics. Shoreham-by-Sea’s built-up character, with its mix of residential and commercial zones, may contribute to this profile, though the lower-than-average violent crime rate suggests effective local policing or community engagement strategies. The seasonal context of December—dark evenings, festive activity, and transient populations—likely amplifies risks in certain areas, such as retail hubs and public spaces. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in light of the significant increase in drug-related incidents and the persistent challenge of shoplifting.

December 2024 witnessed a stark surge in drug-related crimes, which rose from 1 to 9 (+800%) and now account for 7.5% of total offences, far exceeding the UK average of 0.2 per 1,000 (67% above). This sharp increase may be linked to the festive season’s social gatherings and potential disruptions in local law enforcement visibility. Other crime also saw a dramatic rise, jumping from 1 to 4 (+300%), reflecting a broader trend of unclassified incidents that may include nuisance activities or unreported cases. In contrast, theft from the person fell by 66.7% (from 3 to 1), due to increased foot traffic and retail security measures during the Christmas shopping period. Vehicle crime increased by 20% (from 5 to 6), likely tied to seasonal car usage and parking patterns. Shoplifting remains a persistent issue, with rates 40% above the UK average, underscoring the need for continued retail security investments. The breakdown also shows that violence and sexual offences, while still present, remain 45% below the UK average, suggesting effective community interventions or policing in this category. Residents should be aware of the drug-related crime spike and consider heightened caution in areas with high transient populations.

Shoreham-by-Sea’s crime rate in December 2024 (5.1 per 1,000) marked a 9.2% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 5.6 per 1,000, indicating a short-term decline in overall criminal activity. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 4 crimes per day, a figure that, while modest, reflects the concentrated nature of incidents in specific locations. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 198 residents, a monthly exposure rate that, when considered alongside the area’s population of 23,713, illustrates the relatively low frequency of crime compared to UK averages. This lower exposure rate is consistent with Shoreham-by-Sea’s built-up area status, where community policing and local initiatives may contribute to crime prevention. However, the significant rise in drug-related crimes and other unclassified incidents highlights pockets of vulnerability that require targeted attention. The comparison to the previous month also reveals that while overall crime rates have declined, the nature of offences has shifted—particularly the surge in drug-related activity—which may signal broader societal or economic factors at play. Residents should remain aware that while the area remains statistically safer than the UK average, certain types of crime are escalating and may require additional vigilance.