Bedford Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

In August 2023, Bedford recorded a crime rate of 7.5 per 1,000 residents, placing it 7.4% below the UK average of 8.1. This figure reflects a balanced distribution between property and violent crime, with property crimes (497 incidents) narrowly exceeding violent crimes (473 incidents). The most prevalent category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 32.2% of all crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (20.8%). This mix contrasts with the UK average, where violence and sexual offences make up a slightly smaller share. Seasonal factors may influence this pattern, as August is a peak holiday month with increased tourism and potential for empty homes, which could partly explain the 31.6% rise in criminal damage and arson. However, the overall rate remains stable compared to previous months, suggesting no immediate surge in criminal activity. The area’s mix of urban and suburban characteristics, with a significant retail presence and commuter population, likely contributes to the crime profile. While property crimes dominate in absolute numbers, their share of total incidents is offset by the high prevalence of violence and sexual offences, indicating a combination of local dynamics and broader societal trends.

August 2023 saw significant fluctuations in specific crime categories. Burglary increased by 60% compared to July, rising from 35 to 56 incidents. This jump aligns with seasonal patterns, as August is a peak holiday month when homes may be unoccupied, potentially increasing vulnerability. Conversely, theft from the person dropped sharply by 57.9%, falling from 19 to 8 cases—a shift that may reflect reduced foot traffic in retail areas during school holidays. The balance between property and violent crime remained relatively stable. of all incidents, slightly below the UK average for this category. Drug-related offences were 36% above the UK average, a discrepancy that could reflect local policing priorities or unmet demand for illicit substances. Anti-social behaviour also stood out, with an 11% increase over the UK average, linked to the town’s mix of residential and commercial zones. These variations highlight the need for targeted interventions, as certain categories—like burglary—require urgent attention, while others, such as theft from the person, show promising declines.

Bedford’s crime rate in August remained stable at 7.5 per 1,000, matching the previous month’s figure (July 2023) with a -0.1% change. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 47 crimes per day, a figure that underscores the persistent nature of local criminal activity. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 133 residents, a monthly exposure rate that is consistent with the area’s population of 194,976. This statistic, while seemingly low, translates to a tangible risk for residents, as the cumulative effect of 1,469 incidents over a month can impact community safety perceptions. The stability in the overall rate contrasts with the sharp increase in burglary and the steep decline in theft from the person, illustrating how specific categories can fluctuate independently of the broader trend. For context, the UK average crime rate of 8.1 per 1,000 means Bedford is relatively safer, though targeted issues like drug-related offences and anti-social behaviour indicate areas requiring focused attention. These comparisons help residents understand their local context within the national picture, while the daily crime count provides a concrete measure of the immediate risks faced by the community.