Kempston Crime Rate July 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Kempston's crime rate in July 2025 stood at 10.6 per 1,000 residents, 23.3% above the UK average of 8.6. The area's crime profile was dominated by violence and sexual offences (45.9% of total incidents), shoplifting (13.8%), and anti-social behaviour (11.9%). This pattern is consistent with Kempston's position as a built-up area within Bedford, where high foot traffic, retail presence, and seasonal tourism likely drive certain offences. Violence and sexual offences, at 4.8 per 1,000, were 58% above the UK average, a figure that may reflect the area's proximity to Bedford's nightlife and commercial hubs. Shoplifting's 131% above UK average aligns with Kempston's role as a retail destination. decline from June suggests potential interventions or seasonal shifts. Anti-social behaviour, though 16% below the UK average, remains a concern, particularly during peak summer months when events and festivals draw larger crowds. The seasonal context of July—schools out, tourism at its height, and festivals—likely amplifies public order issues, though this is not reflected in the data for anti-social behaviour, which may indicate effective local policing strategies.

The most dramatic shift in July 2025 was the 110% increase in public order offences, rising from 10 to 21 incidents. This surge aligns with Kempston's seasonal context—peak summer, festivals, and extended daylight hours—factors that likely amplify public gatherings and associated disruptions. Burglary and bicycle theft both saw 100% increases, with three incidents of burglary and four cases of bicycle theft reported. These spikes may be linked to increased foot traffic during festivals or events, creating opportunities for opportunistic crimes. Conversely, shoplifting fell by 23.1% (from 39 to 30), a decline that contrasts with the 131% above UK average for the category. This anomaly could indicate improved policing efforts around retail areas or a seasonal shift in criminal activity. Anti-social behaviour remained 16% below the UK average, reflecting the area's community-focused policing strategies.

Kempston's crime rate in July 2025 rose to 10.6 per 1,000 residents, a 14.8% increase from the previous month's 9.2. This places the area 23.3% above the UK average of 8.6 per 1,000. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately seven crimes each day, a figure that may reflect heightened activity during the summer season. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 95 residents, a measure that highlights the frequency of incidents in a relatively small population. While the overall rate is higher than the UK average, certain categories like anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime fall below national benchmarks. This contrast suggests a combination of local factors, such as Kempston's proximity to Bedford's urban core and its seasonal tourism patterns, which may contribute to fluctuations in specific crime types.