Retford’s crime rate for August 2025 stands at 5.1 per 1,000, a figure that is 37% below the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. This significant disparity places Retford among the safer built-up areas in the country. The most common crimes reported were violence and sexual offences (52 incidents, 42.6% of total), followed by anti-social behaviour (22 incidents, 18.0%) and shoplifting (12 incidents, 9.8%). These figures suggest a focus on interpersonal crime, which may be influenced by Retford’s character as a commuter-oriented town with a mix of residential and retail zones. Seasonal factors in August—such as peak holiday activity and increased tourism—could play a role in shaping these patterns. The lower rate of property crimes compared to the UK average (36 incidents) may reflect effective local policing or the area’s demographic profile, which includes a relatively stable population with fewer transient residents. Violent crime in Retford (2.2 per 1,000) is 23% below the UK average, a trend that may be reinforced by community initiatives or the town’s geographical isolation from larger urban centres. However, the slight rise in shoplifting and other crimes highlights the need for continued vigilance, particularly during months when tourism and retail activity surge. Overall, Retford’s crime profile illustrates a balance between local challenges and broader national trends, with the area’s relative safety offering a contrast to many other UK regions.