July 2023 saw Wick (Arun) record a crime rate of 10.5 per 1,000 residents, placing it 26.5% above the UK average of 8.3. This marked a stark departure from typical seasonal patterns, as the area’s crime profile shifted dramatically. Violence and sexual offences dominated, accounting for 44.3% of all crimes, far exceeding the UK average of 2.8 per 1,000 (69% above). This category’s surge may partly reflect the peak of summer, when increased social activity in public spaces aligns with the area’s character as a commuter hub and small town with limited nightlife. Meanwhile, vehicle crime leapt to 11 incidents—a 1,000% increase from June—suggesting a possible link to seasonal vehicle usage or unsecured parking in residential areas. The breakdown also reveals a marked contrast in anti-social behaviour, which fell 22.7% to 17 incidents, potentially influenced by targeted community efforts or the absence of school groups during the summer break. While property crimes remained relatively low, the sharp rise in violent offences and vehicle crime underscores a shift in the area’s crime dynamics, challenging assumptions about summer as a period of lower criminal activity in built-up areas.