Bognor Regis Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

The crime profile of Bognor Regis in February 2026 reveals a distinct balance between violent and property-related offences, shaped by the area’s coastal character and seasonal rhythms. With a crime rate of 7.4 per 1,000 residents, the area remains 15.6% above the UK average, a figure that underscores the persistent challenges faced by this built-up coastal town. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 32.1% of all reported crimes, the largest single category, followed by anti-social behaviour (16.0%) and shoplifting (13.9%). These figures align with patterns observed in seaside towns, where high-street retail areas and community spaces can become focal points for both violent and non-violent crime. The dominance of violent crime in the mix may be partly explained by the area’s proximity to major transport links and the presence of transient populations during off-peak tourist seasons. Meanwhile, the elevated rates of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting suggest that local policing efforts may need to focus on targeted areas such as the town centre and public transport hubs. The seasonal context of February—a winter month with low outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—likely contributes to the subdued levels of vehicle crime and bicycle theft, which fell significantly compared to the previous month. However, the continued above-average rates for public order offences and shoplifting indicate that the area’s crime profile remains influenced by factors such as retail density and the need for community engagement strategies to address disruptive behaviour. This data provides a snapshot of the combination of geography, demographics, and crime trends in Bognor Regis, offering insights for both residents and policymakers.

February 2026 saw a notable 18.8% increase in public order offences, rising from 32 to 38 incidents. This shift may reflect heightened tensions during the pre-spring lull, a period when seasonal transitions can disrupt local routines. Conversely, vehicle crime fell sharply by 63.0%, dropping from 27 to 10 cases, likely due to reduced outdoor activity and fewer commuters during winter. Shoplifting, which accounted for 13.9% of all crimes, remained 72% above the UK average, underscoring the ongoing challenge posed by retail theft in Bognor Regis’s high-street areas. Anti-social behaviour, at 16.0% of total crimes, was 32% above the UK average, suggesting that local community spaces may be experiencing higher-than-expected levels of disruptive conduct. These patterns highlight the need for targeted interventions in areas with dense foot traffic and public gathering spots.

Bognor Regis recorded a crime rate of 7.4 per 1,000 residents in February 2026, a 9.0% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 8.1 per 1,000. This decline aligns with typical seasonal patterns observed in coastal towns during winter, where reduced foot traffic and colder weather may limit opportunities for certain crimes. On a daily basis, the area experienced roughly 19 crimes per day in February, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 135 residents over the course of the month. While this monthly exposure rate is consistent with the area’s character as a mixed-use coastal town, it remains 15.6% above the UK average. The population-scaled perspective highlights that Bognor Regis, despite its relatively low population density for a built-up area, continues to face challenges in maintaining crime rates below national benchmarks. This context is critical for residents and local authorities assessing the effectiveness of ongoing policing strategies and community initiatives.