Kirkby-in-Ashfield Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

For every 1,000 residents in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, 8.8 crimes were reported in January 2026 — a figure that translates to roughly one in every 114 residents experiencing a crime during the month. This rate, 29.4% above the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000, highlights the area's distinct crime profile. Violence and sexual offences (45 incidents) accounted for 25.9% of all crimes, followed by shoplifting (33 cases) and anti-social behaviour (24 incidents). The post-holiday period in January, marked by shorter days and reduced retail activity, may have contributed to the 230% increase in shoplifting compared to December. However, the higher-than-average rates for shoplifting (198% above UK) and criminal damage (129% above UK) suggest structural factors beyond seasonal influences. Anti-social behaviour, at 1.2 per 1,000, was 29% above the UK average, potentially linked to the built-up area's density and limited public space. Violent crimes, while still significant, were 8% below the UK average, reflecting the area's demographics or local policing efforts. These patterns illustrate the complex relationship between urban environments and crime, where proximity to services and community dynamics shape risk differently than in rural or coastal areas.

January 2026 saw dramatic shifts in crime patterns, with shoplifting and public order offences increasing by 230% and 225% compared to December. These surges may reflect post-holiday disruptions, though reduced retail footfall typically deters such crimes. Conversely, vehicle crime fell by 50%, likely linked to colder weather and shorter daylight hours limiting outdoor activity. Among UK comparisons, shoplifting's rate of 1.7 per 1,000 (198% above the UK average) stands out as a stark outlier, potentially tied to local retail concentrations. Violent crimes, however, were 8% below the UK average at 2.3 per 1,000, a statistic that may reassure residents concerned about personal safety. Other theft rose 300% — a 0.6 per 1,000 rate — suggesting targeted opportunities in residential areas. These fluctuations highlight the need for tailored community responses to specific crime drivers.

Kirkby-in-Ashfield's crime rate in January 2026 rose 21.7% compared to December 2025, reflecting a shift in local patterns. With 174 crimes reported over 31 days, this averages to six crimes per day — a figure that may feel more tangible for residents navigating daily life. The monthly exposure rate of one crime per 114 residents underscores the frequency of incidents in a relatively small population. While the overall rate remains 29.4% above the UK average, the distribution of crime types reveals contrasts: burglary and vehicle crime are both below UK levels, possibly reflecting lower foot traffic in retail and parking areas during January's shorter days. This daily context highlights the need for vigilance in high-traffic zones, even as other categories like shoplifting and public order offences surge. The interplay between seasonal factors and local demographics may partly explain these trends.