Rustington Crime Rate May 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Rustington's crime rate in May 2025 stood at 5.1 per 1,000 residents, placing the built-up area 37% below the UK average of 8.1. This rate translates to a tangible everyday risk profile: over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 197 residents. The most prevalent crime category remained violence and sexual offences, accounting for 33.5% of total incidents.7 per 1,000 was 40% below the UK average for this category. Anti-social behaviour followed at 22.9%, with a 15% gap relative to national figures. Seasonal patterns in May—longer evenings and increased outdoor socialising—may partly explain the persistence of violent crimes, though the area's compact built-up nature could also contribute to higher visibility and quicker response times from local authorities. The relative absence of property crimes compared to the UK average (property crimes make up 38.5% of total incidents in Rustington, versus 51% nationally) suggests effective local measures in securing homes and businesses, though the slight rise in 'other crime' incidents remains an area for continued scrutiny. The interplay between the town's character as a built-up area within Arun and its crime profile indicates a balance between urban density and community-focused policing that may help sustain its below-average rates despite seasonal fluctuations.

May 2025 saw a 200% increase in drug-related crimes, rising from two to six incidents, a shift that may reflect changes in local policing priorities or drug trade dynamics. Concurrently, 'other crime' incidents doubled, suggesting unclassified activities may be contributing to the overall rate. This contrasts with a 66.7% decline in bicycle theft, likely linked to increased awareness campaigns or seasonal changes in cycling activity. While violent crimes remained the most common category (33.5% of total), their rate of 1.7 per 1,000 was 40% below the UK average for this category. The drop in burglary (64% below UK average) and other theft (62% below) indicates strong local deterrence measures, though the rise in 'other crime' incidents without clear categorisation warrants further monitoring. Residents may find the 66.7% reduction in bicycle theft particularly relevant, as it suggests effective community initiatives or improved lighting in key areas.

Rustington's crime rate in May 2025 rose to 5.1 per 1,000 residents, a 7.9% increase from April's 4.7. This translates to roughly six reported crimes per day across the built-up area, though the monthly aggregate shows one crime for every 197 residents. While the rate remains 37% below the UK average, the rise in May suggests seasonal factors may be influencing local patterns. The town's compact built-up area, which sees regular foot traffic during longer evenings, may contribute to this uptick. Residents are advised to remain vigilant during late-night hours, particularly in areas with high concentrations of retail or social venues. The 1-in-197 figure, while low, underscores that even modest crime rates can have a tangible impact on community perception of safety when concentrated in specific times or locations.