Bognor Regis Crime Rate May 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Bognor Regis' crime profile in May 2024 reveals a near-even split between property and violent crimes, a dynamic that may reflect the town's coastal character and seasonal rhythms. With a crime rate of 7.3 per 1,000—13.1% below the UK average—the area demonstrates a relatively low level of criminal activity. Violence and sexual offences (34% of all crimes) and anti-social behaviour (14.7%) dominate, while property crimes account for 33.6%. This balance suggests that public safety concerns are as pressing as economic crimes. The seasonal context of May—marked by longer evenings, bank holidays, and increased outdoor drinking—likely contributes to the prevalence of anti-social behaviour and violence. While shoplifting (9% above UK average) and criminal damage (13% above) indicate vulnerabilities in retail and property sectors, the sharp decline in bicycle theft (100% below UK average) may signal effective local initiatives or seasonal trends. The town's coastal identity, with its mix of tourist activity and residential communities, likely shapes these patterns. The UK comparison underscores Bognor Regis' relatively safe environment, but the surge in weapon possession (150% above UK average) highlights a specific concern that may require targeted policing or community outreach.

May 2024 saw a significant shift in crime patterns, with violent crimes accounting for 34% of all incidents—nearly matching property crimes at 33.6%. This balance suggests a combination of public safety concerns and local demographics. Possession of weapons rose by 116.7% (6 to 13 incidents), a figure 150% above the UK average. This spike, though small in absolute terms, may partly explain the increase in violent crimes. Conversely, bicycle theft fell by 57.1% (7 to 3), a sharp decline that contrasts with the UK average of 0.1 per 1,000. Residents might find the 13.1% reduction in overall crime rate compared to the UK average (8.4 per 1,000) reassuring, though the rise in weapon possession warrants attention. The seasonal context of longer evenings and increased socialising likely contributes to the uptick in anti-social behaviour and violence.

Bognor Regis' crime rate in May 2024 rose by 15.4% compared to April's 6.3 per 1,000, reflecting a shift in local dynamics. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 138 residents, a figure that contextualises the monthly exposure for households. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 17 crimes per day, a rate that aligns with the town's seasonal rhythm of increased foot traffic during May's extended evenings. This increase contrasts with the UK average, yet the local population's size—71,159—means the absolute number of crimes remains lower than in larger urban centres. The rise in violent crimes and the persistence of anti-social behaviour suggest a need for ongoing community engagement, particularly as the town's coastal character draws both residents and visitors during the spring season.