Sutton in Ashfield Crime Rate

Sutton in Ashfield's crime rate of 121.7 per 1,000 residents — 33.5% above the UK average — is most striking for the 176.2% year-on-year increase in bicycle theft. Despite a stable overall crime rate (-2.3% YoY), this sharp rise in a specific category highlights emerging vulnerabilities. The area's property crime rate is also 39% above the UK average, with violence and sexual offences being the most common crime type.

Sutton in Ashfield is a built-up area within Ashfield, characterised by a mix of residential and commercial zones. Its proximity to Nottingham and the presence of retail centres may contribute to higher shoplifting rates, while its commuter nature likely influences vehicle crime patterns. Socioeconomic factors, such as a younger population and lower average income compared to UK averages, may also play a role in elevated anti-social behaviour and violence rates.

The most surprising finding is the 176.2% year-on-year increase in bicycle theft, which is 92% above the UK average. This spike may be linked to a growing cycling culture or inadequate secure parking facilities for bikes. Violence and sexual offences, the most common crime type (40.9 per 1,000), are 27% above the UK average, likely influenced by the area's younger demographic and potential social tensions. Anti-social behaviour (19.4 per 1,000), though falling by 20% YoY, remains 31% above the UK average, possibly due to the area's density and limited public spaces for recreation. Shoplifting (12.9 per 1,000), while declining, remains 70% above the UK average, likely tied to the presence of retail hubs and high foot traffic.

Crime in Sutton in Ashfield has remained stable (-2.3% YoY), but specific types have diverged. Bicycle theft surged by 176.2% YoY, likely due to increased cycling activity or inadequate bike storage. Vehicle crime rose by 73.2% YoY, possibly linked to parking challenges in a commuter-focused area. Shoplifting and anti-social behaviour have declined by 25% and 20% YoY, respectively, though they remain above UK averages. Violence and sexual offences increased by 5.2% YoY, potentially reflecting seasonal patterns or social dynamics.

How To Keep Safe in Sutton in Ashfield

Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas after dark, as vehicle crime peaks between 12am-6am (37% of night-time crimes). Secure bicycles with locks and store them in well-lit, monitored spaces to counter the 176.2% YoY increase in bicycle theft. For families, ensure homes have visible security measures like motion-activated lights, which may deter burglars (4.7 per 1,000). Report anti-social behaviour promptly, as it remains 31% above the UK average despite a 20% YoY decline.

Crime in Sutton in Ashfield peaks during evenings and nights, with vehicle crime surging between 12am-6am (37% of night-time crimes) due to reduced visibility and fewer pedestrians. Theft from the person, though low (0.6% of all crimes), is most common in the afternoon (41% of afternoon crimes), potentially linked to shopping activity. Burglary and other crimes are most frequent at night (35% of night-time crimes), suggesting opportunistic intrusions in unoccupied homes. Weekends show higher evening/night activity compared to weekdays, likely due to increased socialising and alcohol-related incidents.

Compared to nearby areas, Sutton in Ashfield has a 20% higher crime rate than Stanton Hill and Skegby (121.7 vs 101.7) and a 41% higher rate than Huthwaite (86.2). However, it is 19% safer than Kirkby-in-Ashfield (102.3) and 20% safer than Mansfield (146.0). These differences may reflect varying population densities and economic factors.

Home security in Sutton in Ashfield should prioritise proactive measures to counter vehicle crime (5.7 per 1,000) and bicycle theft (1.5 per 1,000). scOS's DVLA vehicle registration verification can flag stolen or cloned plates, reducing vehicle crime risks. For bicycle theft, scOS's multi-camera monitoring and AI boundary detection can identify unauthorised activity. Additionally, scOS's behavioural pattern learning can distinguish regular visitors from potential threats, reducing false alarms in areas with high anti-social behaviour (19.4 per 1,000).