Darfield Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Darfield's crime profile in February 2026, accounting for 46.7% of all reported incidents. This category alone reached 28 cases, a rate of 3.8 per 1,000 residents—64% above the UK average for the same category. The overall crime rate of 8.0 per 1,000 residents places Darfield 25% above the national average of 6.4, a disparity that has persisted despite seasonal changes. February's low outdoor activity and pre-spring lull likely contributed to the concentration of crimes in indoor spaces, such as residential areas and public venues. The dominance of violent crime may be linked to Darfield's status as a built-up area within Barnsley, where population density and limited public amenities could foster conditions conducive to interpersonal conflict. Anti-social behaviour and criminal damage followed closely, each at 10% of total crimes, but these categories were below or in line with UK averages. Drugs-related offences—4 cases—were 117% above the UK average, suggesting a potential hotspot for illicit activity. The seasonal context of February, marked by colder weather and reduced daylight, may have limited opportunities for outdoor crimes but intensified indoor disputes or substance-related incidents. This pattern contrasts with the UK's broader seasonal trends, where violent crime typically peaks in warmer months, indicating unique local factors at play. The data underscores the need for targeted strategies to address violence and drugs-related offences, which are high in Darfield compared to the national picture.

February 2026 saw a sharp 40% increase in violence and sexual offences, rising from 20 to 28 incidents. This surge, which is 64% above the UK average, suggests heightened tensions or unmet community needs that may require closer examination. Possession of weapons also surged by 100%, with two reported cases in February compared to none in January—a stark anomaly that could signal emerging trends in local crime dynamics. Conversely, burglary rates fell by 50%, aligning with a broader UK trend of declining property crimes. This decline may be linked to seasonal factors, such as reduced outdoor activity during winter. Public order offences dropped by 60%, reflecting the quieter nature of a pre-spring lull. Residents might find the 100% rise in weapon possession particularly concerning, as it indicates a shift in the types of crimes being reported. These fluctuations highlight the need for ongoing monitoring of specific categories that deviate significantly from both local and national averages.

Darfield's crime rate in February 2026 rose slightly to 8.0 per 1,000 residents, a 3.5% increase from the previous month's 7.8. This places the area 25% above the UK average of 6.4, a gap that has remained consistent despite seasonal fluctuations. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly two crimes per day, a figure that reflects the persistent nature of local crime patterns. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 125 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the frequency of incidents in a relatively small population. While this rate is higher than the UK average, the area's built-up nature within Barnsley may contribute to concentrated crime hotspots. The population context—7,470 residents—means that each reported incident has a tangible impact on community safety, particularly in areas with limited policing resources or high foot traffic. This comparison highlights the need for targeted interventions that address both the volume and distribution of crimes.