Bournemouth Crime Rate January 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Bournemouth's crime rate for January 2024 stood at 9.7 per 1,000 residents, placing it 31.1% above the UK average of 7.4 per 1,000. This elevated rate reflects a combination of local factors, including the area's status as a major coastal resort and commuter hub, which naturally attracts higher foot traffic and associated risks. Violence and sexual offences were the most prevalent category, accounting for 30.7% of all crimes, with a rate of 3.0 per 1,000 — 15% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, making up 21.0% of incidents at 2.0 per 1,000, a figure 102% above the national benchmark. These patterns are consistent with Bournemouth's character as a tourist destination, where high population turnover and dense urban areas create conditions conducive to such crimes. Seasonal context further explains some trends, as January's post-holiday period typically sees reduced retail activity and shorter daylight hours, which may contribute to shifts in crime types. Vehicle crime, at 0.9 per 1,000, was 80% above the UK average, likely tied to the town's proximity to major transport routes and the presence of car parks in high-traffic areas. While these figures highlight challenges, they also provide a clear roadmap for targeted interventions in specific sectors of the community.

January 2024 saw a sharp 64.5% rise in shoplifting, with incidents jumping from 107 to 176. This increase aligns with the post-holiday period, where reduced retail footfall and seasonal transitions may have created opportunities for opportunistic theft. Meanwhile, drug-related crimes rose 34.6%, potentially linked to colder weather driving indoor activity in areas with higher concentrations of transient populations. Conversely, possession of weapons dropped 57.1% to six incidents, a decline that may reflect heightened police presence in high-risk zones. Anti-social behaviour remained 102% above the UK average at 2.0 per 1,000, a figure that highlights persistent challenges in managing public spaces. Vehicle crime, at 0.9 per 1,000, was 80% above the national average, likely driven by Bournemouth's coastal geography and commuter traffic patterns. These shifts underscore the need for tailored interventions in retail zones and transportation hubs.

Bournemouth's crime rate in January 2024 rose 8.9% compared to December 2023, reflecting a continued upward trend in reported incidents. This increase brings the monthly rate to 9.7 per 1,000 residents, a figure that is 31.1% above the UK average. Daily crime statistics show an average of 63 crimes per day, highlighting the persistent pressure on local law enforcement. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 103 residents, a metric that contextualises the frequency of incidents within the population. This monthly exposure rate, while not directly comparable to UK-wide figures, underscores the need for targeted community engagement and resource allocation. The population context further illustrates that Bournemouth's 202,207 residents face a higher risk compared to the national average, particularly in categories such as anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime. These figures suggest a combination of local demographics and environmental factors that require sustained attention from authorities.