In September 2024, Barnham (Arun) maintained a crime rate of 6.5 per 1,000 residents, placing it 15.6% below the UK average of 7.7 per 1,000. The area’s crime profile was shaped by seasonal dynamics, with the return of students and the start of the academic year influencing patterns of activity. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 22.2% of all crimes, followed by shoplifting (18.5%) and anti-social behaviour (14.8%). These figures suggest a mix of personal and property-related incidents, with retail crime remaining a notable concern. The relatively low rate of violent crime—1.5 per 1,000 compared to the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000—may reflect the area’s character as a built-up district within a rural district, where community cohesion and lower population density could contribute to reduced conflict. However, shoplifting rates stood 76% above the UK average, indicating a challenge for local retailers. This disparity highlights the complex relationship between local geography, demographics, and crime trends. As September transitioned from summer to autumn, the influx of students and the adjustment to new routines likely played a role in shaping the month’s crime profile, with public order offences and burglary showing significant increases.