Bournemouth Crime Rate October 2023 | Monthly Statistics

In October 2023, Bournemouth’s crime rate stood at 9.9 per 1,000 residents, placing it 23.8% above the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. This elevated rate translates to a tangible risk for residents, with one reported crime occurring for roughly every 101 people over the course of the month. The most prevalent crime types were violence and sexual offences (30.3% of total incidents), followed by anti-social behaviour (26.5%) and criminal damage and arson (7.5%). These figures are consistent with Bournemouth’s character as a coastal resort town with a high proportion of transient populations, seasonal tourism activity, and mixed-use urban spaces. The higher-than-average rates for violence and anti-social behaviour may be partly explained by the area’s nightlife and entertainment hubs, which attract both residents and visitors. Meanwhile, the seasonal context of October—shorter days, the start of the Halloween season, and clocks going back—likely contributes to increased visibility of anti-social behaviour and property crimes in public spaces. While the overall rate remains stable compared to the previous month, the persistent gap between Bournemouth and the UK average underscores the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas.

October 2023 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with possession of weapons rising by 100% compared to the previous month, reflecting a surge from six to twelve incidents. Burglary also increased by 41%, climbing from 61 to 86 cases, a trend that may be linked to seasonal factors such as darker evenings and the Halloween period. Conversely, theft from the person fell by 44.1%, dropping from 34 to 19 incidents, potentially due to increased public awareness or targeted policing efforts. Anti-social behaviour, the most common crime type, was 103% above the UK average, with 529 incidents reported. This stark contrast to the national average highlights the area’s unique challenges, particularly in densely populated zones. Vehicle crime decreased by 19.3%, a decline that could be attributed to seasonal changes in traffic patterns or improved security measures in parking areas.

Bournemouth's crime rate in October 2023 remained stable at 9.7 per 1,000 compared to the previous month, showing a 2.0% change that suggests little immediate fluctuation. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 64 crimes per day, a figure that highlights the persistent nature of criminal activity in the built-up area. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 101 residents, a monthly aggregate that contextualises the risk in terms of population exposure. This rate, while consistent with the prior month, places Bournemouth significantly above the UK average, a disparity that may reflect local factors such as the area’s coastal tourism infrastructure and high-density urban zones. The population context further illustrates that while crime is not uncommon, the per-capita impact is more pronounced than in many other parts of the country, warranting continued attention to local policing strategies and community engagement.