Darwen Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Darwen, within Blackburn with Darwen, reveal a crime rate of 118.4 per 1,000 residents for the period January 2025 to December 2025. This figure is higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, and reflects a range of issues within the area. While the overall crime rate has remained stable, showing a slight decrease of 2.7% year-on-year, certain crime categories, such as violence and sexual offences, remain a concern. Monthly data indicates fluctuations throughout the year, with peaks observed in March, April, and November 2025. Understanding these trends and patterns is crucial for developing effective preventative measures and ensuring community safety.

In Darwen, the most prevalent crimes recorded between January and December 2025 were violence and sexual offences, accounting for 37.1% of all crimes (1235 incidents). These were followed by anti-social behaviour, representing 29.5% of incidents (982 crimes). Criminal damage and arson constituted the third highest category, with 266 reported crimes, or 8.0% of the total. Overall property crime in Darwen stands at 29.0 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, which is influenced by factors such as the area’s population density, the presence of commercial areas, and socio-economic conditions. The mix of residential and industrial areas likely contributes to the varied crime profile observed.

Crime rates in Darwen have demonstrated relative stability between January 2025 and December 2025, experiencing a slight decrease of 2.7% year-on-year. While monthly fluctuations have occurred, with notable peaks in March (9.2 per 1,000), April (11.2 per 1,000), and November (9.5 per 1,000), these variations do not indicate a significant upward or downward trend. The overall stability suggests that existing preventative measures may be having a limited effect, and ongoing efforts are required to address the underlying factors contributing to crime in the area.

How To Keep Safe in Darwen

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences in Darwen, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Consider travelling in groups and avoiding poorly lit areas. Due to the higher rate of anti-social behaviour, report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Secure your vehicles by parking in well-lit areas and ensuring windows are closed. Finally, be vigilant about your personal belongings and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce the risk of theft.

Crimes in Darwen demonstrate distinct time patterns. Burglaries are most likely to occur during the afternoon (17%) and night (14%), while vehicle crime peaks overnight (48% between 12am and 6am). Theft is prevalent throughout the day, with higher incidents during commercial hours. Violence tends to be concentrated in the evening hours (6pm - 12am), particularly on weekends. Understanding these patterns can inform personal safety precautions and targeted policing efforts.

Comparing Darwen to surrounding areas, Hoddlesden exhibits a significantly lower crime rate of 54.6 per 1,000 residents, while Blackburn (within Blackburn with Darwen) has a higher rate of 123.2 per 1,000. Withnell's rate stands at 39.3 per 1,000, and Oswaldtwistle is slightly higher at 125.9 per 1,000. These variations highlight the localised nature of crime and the influence of varying factors across the region.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. With a crime rate of 118.4 per 1,000 in Darwen, proactive security is essential. scOS offers a different approach, using AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary, before a break-in can even begin. Its multi-camera intelligence monitors all cameras simultaneously, identifying suspicious activity and instantly verifying vehicles against the DVLA database. By learning your family's routines and recognising deliveries, scOS minimises false alarms and provides an element of surprise for potential intruders, often deterring them before they act. The visible presence of scOS equipment signals a high level of protection, making that critical 60-second decision for burglars – to move on.