Cudworth and Shafton’s overall crime rate in October 2024 stood at 7.8 per 1,000 residents, placing it 3.7% below the UK average of 8.1. This figure, while showing a 53.8% increase from the previous month, reflects a broader trend where the area’s built-up character—likely shaped by its integration within Barnsley’s urban fabric—moderates crime levels compared to larger cities. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences (40.2% of total), followed by anti-social behaviour (19.6%). These categories, particularly violence, remained consistently above UK averages, suggesting persistent challenges in community safety. Seasonal factors may have influenced patterns: the clocks going back and darker evenings in October likely contributed to increased anti-social behaviour and public order offences, which rose sharply. Meanwhile, burglary and vehicle crime rates fell, potentially linked to reduced outdoor activity during shorter days. The area’s lower-than-average burglary rate (39% below UK norms) may also reflect effective local policing or community initiatives, though this remains speculative without further data. As Halloween approached, the surge in public order offences underscores how seasonal events can temporarily amplify certain crime types, even in areas with generally stable rates.