Penistone Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

The crime profile in Penistone for February 2026 reveals a distinct emphasis on property-related offences, with shoplifting and burglary accounting for nearly 40% of all reported crimes. This pattern is consistent with the area's built-up character within Barnsley, where retail activity and residential density may contribute to opportunities for such crimes. The overall crime rate of 3.5 per 1,000 residents places Penistone 45.3% below the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000, highlighting its relatively low levels of criminal activity compared to the national context. Violent crimes, however, remain significantly below the UK average, with violence and sexual offences at 0.6 per 1,000 compared to the national rate of 2.3 per 1,000. This contrast suggests that the area's social fabric and policing strategies may be effective in mitigating violent crime. Seasonal factors also appear to play a role, with February's low outdoor activity aligning with the pre-spring lull in criminal activity. The dominance of property crimes, particularly in retail and residential contexts, may be influenced by local economic factors or the presence of high-traffic areas. These patterns underscore the importance of targeted crime prevention measures in areas with high retail footfall, while the overall low crime rate indicates that Penistone remains a relatively safe environment compared to broader UK trends.

February 2026 saw a 200% increase in both shoplifting and burglary, with these crimes accounting for 39% of the total reported incidents. This sharp rise in property crimes contrasts with a 40% decline in anti-social behaviour and a 33% drop in public order offences. The crime mix reveals a clear focus on property-related offences, with shoplifting and burglary rates 21% and 180% above the UK average respectively. This divergence from the national trend may indicate local factors such as retail environments or seasonal dynamics influencing criminal activity. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences remained 74% below the UK average, a statistic that could reflect the area's demographic profile or effective community policing efforts. These shifts in crime patterns offer residents and authorities a nuanced view of local challenges and successes in crime prevention.

Penistone's crime rate for February 2026 rose by 29.3% compared to the previous month, moving from 2.7 to 3.5 per 1,000 residents. This increase, though notable, remains 45.3% below the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000. The daily crime count for the month averaged roughly one incident per day, reflecting a relatively low frequency of reported crimes. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 286 residents, a figure that contextualises the monthly exposure for local residents. This rate is particularly significant in a built-up area within Barnsley, where population density and community dynamics may influence crime patterns. The rise in property crimes, particularly shoplifting and burglary, contrasts with declines in anti-social behaviour and public order offences, suggesting shifting priorities or environmental factors affecting criminal activity. These figures, while modest, highlight the need for ongoing monitoring of local trends in a small urban setting.