April 2024 marked a mixed picture for crime in Barnham (Arun), with the area’s overall crime rate standing at 8.1 per 1,000 residents — 5.2% above the UK average. This figure, while slightly elevated compared to the national benchmark, reflects a combination of local factors and seasonal influences. The most significant contributors to the crime profile were shoplifting (23 incidents, 34.3% of total) and anti-social behaviour (15 incidents, 22.4%), both of which were high compared to UK averages. Shoplifting, in particular, was 318% above the UK rate, a figure that likely reflects the built-up nature of the area and the presence of retail activity. Anti-social behaviour also exceeded the UK average by 48%, potentially linked to the increased social interactions typical of springtime. Violent crimes, however, showed a notable decrease, with violence and sexual offences dropping by 42.1% from the previous month. This reduction may be partly explained by the Easter holiday period, which often sees fewer public gatherings and reduced foot traffic in local areas. The seasonal context of April — marked by Easter and the transition into warmer weather — may have contributed to a shift in crime patterns, with outdoor activity displacing some indoor crimes. Despite these fluctuations, the overall crime rate remains relatively low when compared to the average for larger urban centres, illustrating the area’s generally stable security profile.