Darfield Crime Rate August 2024 | Monthly Statistics

In August 2024, Darfield—a built-up area within Barnsley—recorded 79 crimes, equating to a rate of 10.6 per 1,000 residents. This figure is 29.3% above the UK average of 8.2 per 1,000, highlighting a notable divergence from national trends. The most prevalent crime types were violence and sexual offences (32 incidents, 40.5% of total), followed by anti-social behaviour (13 incidents, 16.5%) and criminal damage and arson (9 incidents, 11.4%). These figures suggest a mix of persistent local challenges and seasonal influences. August, as a peak holiday month, may partly explain the higher incidence of violence and anti-social behaviour, potentially linked to increased alcohol consumption or transient populations. Conversely, shoplifting and burglary rates were below the UK average, with shoplifting 44% lower than the national rate. This contrast could reflect Darfield’s relatively small retail footprint compared to larger urban centres, though the seasonal context of empty homes during August may still elevate burglary risks. The area’s crime profile thus illustrates a combination of local demographics, transient activity, and the timing of annual events.

August 2024 saw significant month-on-month shifts in Darfield’s crime profile. Drug-related incidents surged by 200%, rising from 1 to 3 cases, while possession of weapons increased by 100%, from 2 to 4. Anti-social behaviour also rose sharply by 62.5%, with reports jumping from 8 to 13. These increases align with the UK’s broader trend of rising drug-related crimes, though Darfield’s rate for possession of weapons (0.5 per 1,000) is 614% above the national average—a stark anomaly. Conversely, burglary and other crime both declined sharply: burglary dropped 75% (from 4 to 1 cases), and other crime fell 80% (from 5 to 1). This decline may reflect improved security measures or seasonal factors, as August’s peak holiday period often sees homes left unoccupied, potentially deterring burglars. Violence and sexual offences (4.3 per 1,000) remain 60% above the UK average, while anti-social behaviour (1.7 per 1,000) is 18% above national levels. These figures underscore the need for targeted interventions in areas with high transient populations, though the drop in property crimes offers a counterpoint to the overall upward trend in violent and anti-social incidents.

Darfield’s crime rate in August 2024 (10.6 per 1,000) rose by 2.6% compared to the previous month’s rate of 10.3 per 1,000, indicating a modest but measurable increase. On a daily basis, the area experienced roughly 3 crimes per day, a figure that, while seemingly low, translates to one reported crime for every 95 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate provides a tangible context for residents, illustrating the frequency of incidents relative to population size. The area’s crime rate remains significantly higher than the UK average, with violence and sexual offences 60% above the national benchmark. However, certain categories like shoplifting and burglary show a more favourable position, with shoplifting 44% below the UK average. These disparities highlight Darfield’s unique challenges compared to the broader UK context, where property crimes often dominate. The 2.6% increase from July to August may reflect the seasonal dynamics of the area, with August’s transient populations and holiday-related activities contributing to higher rates of violence and anti-social behaviour. Residents should be aware that while the overall rate is elevated, targeted efforts in specific crime categories could yield meaningful improvements.