Wick (Arun) Crime Rate

Wick (Arun) exhibits a crime profile that contrasts intriguingly with national trends. While its overall crime rate (86.5 per 1,000) is 5.2% below the UK average, violence and sexual offences are 11% higher than the national average. This disparity highlights the area’s unique mix of commercial activity and residential life, where retail hubs may drive certain crime types while community initiatives help suppress others.

Wick (Arun) is a built-up area within the Arun district, characterised by a mix of residential, commercial, and coastal proximity. Its location near Littlehampton and Arundel influences local dynamics, with retail and leisure activities contributing to foot traffic that may elevate certain crime types. The area’s moderate population density and proximity to urban centres likely shape its crime profile, balancing community cohesion with occasional spikes in anti-social or violent incidents.

The most surprising finding is that violence and sexual offences in Wick (Arun) are 11% above the UK average (35.6 vs 32.2 per 1,000). This may be linked to the area’s commercial hubs, which attract transient populations during peak hours. Anti-social behaviour, though lower than the UK average (13.7 vs 14.8), remains notable, possibly tied to the area’s proximity to nightlife spots. Shoplifting (7.2 per 1,000) is slightly below the UK average but shows a steep 63.2% YoY decline, likely reflecting enhanced retail security measures. Vehicle crime, at 3.9 per 1,000, is 17% below the UK average, potentially due to lower commuter traffic compared to larger urban centres. However, bicycle theft has surged by 125% YoY, a stark outlier that may reflect seasonal cycling patterns or underreported incidents.

Crime in Wick (Arun) has decreased by 15.6% YoY, with shoplifting dropping 63.2% and burglary falling 46.2%. However, bicycle theft has surged by 125% YoY, a stark outlier. Monthly trends show a sharp peak in April (9.4 per 1,000) followed by a steep decline, likely linked to seasonal factors. The January 2026 drop (0.1 per 1,000) may reflect post-Christmas lulls in retail activity or temporary enforcement measures.

How To Keep Safe in Wick (Arun)

Avoid isolated areas during late evenings when vehicle crime spikes (43% of incidents occur between 12am–6am). Use well-lit routes for walking, especially during the afternoon (12pm–6pm) when theft peaks. For residents, securing vehicles with scOS’s DVLA verification feature can mitigate risks. If encountering anti-social behaviour, report it promptly through local channels. Community vigilance, particularly during commercial hours, is key to maintaining safety.

Crime in Wick (Arun) exhibits distinct temporal patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (47% of cases between 12pm–6pm), aligning with shopping hours and commercial activity. Vehicle crime spikes at night (43% of incidents between 12am–6am), likely due to reduced surveillance and isolated parking areas. Burglary is most common in the evening (17% of cases between 6pm–12am), possibly linked to returning residents and dimly lit residential zones. The evening also sees a 56% rise in 'other' crimes, which may include anti-social behaviour or minor disturbances.

Compared to nearby areas, Wick (Arun) is significantly safer than Littlehampton (34% lower crime rate) and Arundel (76% lower). Yapton’s crime rate is 19% higher than Wick (Arun), while Rustington, the safest nearby area, has 85% fewer crimes. These differences likely reflect varying urban density and economic profiles.

For Wick (Arun), scOS’s proactive boundary detection and DVLA vehicle registration verification are particularly relevant. With vehicle crime peaking at night (43% of incidents between 12am–6am), scOS’s real-time alerts and automated lighting can deter intruders. The system’s behavioural pattern learning also helps distinguish legitimate activity from potential threats, reducing false alarms during high-traffic periods like afternoons.