Kempston Crime Rate December 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Kempston’s crime rate in December 2025 stood at 7.2 per 1,000 residents, marking a 2.9% increase above the UK average of 7.0 per 1,000. This elevation, though modest, reflects a broader pattern where violent crimes dominated the local crime picture, accounting for 41.9% of all reported incidents. Violence and sexual offences were the most common category, with 62 incidents recorded—a rate of 3.0 per 1,000, 17% above the UK average. The surge in public order offences, which rose to 19 cases (12.8% of total crimes), further complicated the local security landscape. These figures are consistent with the seasonal context of December, a month marked by Christmas shopping, extended periods of darkness, and increased social gatherings that may heighten tensions in public spaces. Anti-social behaviour, while lower than the UK average, remained a notable concern, with 14 incidents reported (0.7 per 1,000). This suggests that while Kempston’s overall crime rate is slightly above the national average, the nature of local crime is shaped by both urban characteristics and seasonal rhythms. The relatively low rates of property crimes, such as burglary (0.2 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (0.3 per 1,000), indicate that residential areas may be less vulnerable to theft compared to other regions. However, the rise in drug-related offences and public disorder highlights the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas. Kempston’s crime profile, therefore, illustrates a combination of seasonal factors, local demographics, and the unique challenges of a built-up area within Bedford.

December 2025 saw a sharp 72.7% increase in public order offences, rising from 11 to 19 incidents. This jump aligns with seasonal factors such as the party season and dark evenings, which may have exacerbated tensions in public spaces. Simultaneously, drug-related crimes rose by 33.3%, with eight incidents reported—nearly double the UK average of 0.3 per 1,000. This suggests a possible shift in local drug activity patterns during the festive period. Theft from the person saw a 100% increase, with one reported incident in December after none in November, indicating a potential rise in targeted street crime. While violent crimes remained the most prevalent category (41.9% of total), their rate was 17% above the UK average, pointing to a persistent challenge in Kempston. These spikes demand closer attention from residents and local authorities, particularly as public order and drug-related issues may reflect broader social pressures during the holiday season.

Kempston's crime rate in December 2025 fell by 16.8% compared to November 2025, dropping from 8.6 to 7.2 per 1,000 residents. This decline contrasts with the area’s 2.9% increase above the UK average, highlighting local factors that may have dampened overall crime despite broader national trends. On a daily basis, Kempston recorded approximately five crimes per day in December, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 140 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate offers a snapshot of how frequently residents might encounter crime in their communities. While the drop from November suggests a possible seasonal lull, the persistent elevation above the UK average underscores the need for continued local vigilance. The population context further reveals that Kempston’s crime profile, though lower than the previous month, remains distinct from the UK average, with specific categories such as violence and public order offences driving the discrepancy.