Bognor Regis Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Bognor Regis' crime rate in January 2026 stood at 8.1 per 1,000 residents, 19.1% above the UK average of 6.8. This discrepancy highlights the area's distinct profile compared to the national picture, where violence and sexual offences accounted for 30.8% of all crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (14.5%) and shoplifting (14.0%). The elevated rate for violence and sexual offences aligns with patterns often seen in built-up coastal areas with mixed-use developments, where late-night activity and transient populations may contribute to higher incidents. Shoplifting's 93% excess over the UK average reflects the area's retail presence, particularly in the town centre, which remains a focal point for theft despite seasonal fluctuations. January's post-holiday context, with reduced footfall on high streets and shorter daylight hours, may have contributed to a shift in crime patterns, though the persistence of anti-social behaviour suggests underlying community tensions. The area's position as a commuter hub within Arun may also play a role, as transient populations and increased traffic can influence crime dynamics. While the overall rate remains concerning, the breakdown reveals specific areas for targeted intervention, particularly in retail zones and public spaces.

January 2026 saw a dramatic 400% increase in bicycle theft, with incidents rising from 1 to 5. This spike aligns with seasonal patterns observed in coastal areas, where colder weather may drive more indoor activity and thus reduce outdoor crime. Concurrently, robbery rates tripled from 2 to 8, a jump that outpaces the UK average for this category. Anti-social behaviour also rose sharply, with a 55.6% increase from 54 to 84 incidents. This surge in disorderly conduct contrasts with the 26.4% decline in criminal damage and arson, which fell from 91 to 67. Shoplifting remains 93% above the UK average, a persistent challenge for retail sectors in the area. The decrease in burglary by 26.1% from 23 to 17 incidents may reflect improved security measures in residential properties, though this remains below the UK average for burglary rates.

Bognor Regis' crime rate in January 2026 rose to 8.1 per 1,000 residents, marking a 5.5% increase from the previous month's 7.7. This places the area 19.1% above the UK average of 6.8, a disparity that persists despite local efforts. On a daily basis, the area experiences approximately 19 reported crimes each day, translating to a monthly exposure rate of one crime for every 123 residents. This figure underscores the relative density of incidents compared to the national context, though it remains important to note that Bognor Regis' population of 71,159 is concentrated within a built-up area that includes both residential and commercial zones. The shift in crime mix—from property-related offences in previous months to a more pronounced focus on violence and anti-social behaviour—suggests evolving patterns that may reflect seasonal dynamics or localized factors. The population-scaled perspective reveals that while individual risk remains low, the cumulative effect of these figures highlights a need for targeted community engagement strategies.