Bournemouth Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Bournemouth's crime rate in January 2026 was 7.4 per 1,000 residents, placing it 12.1% above the UK average of 6.6. This figure reflects a combination of local factors, including the area's coastal character and mixed urban-rural dynamics. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 30.9% of all reported crimes, a notable proportion that aligns with Bournemouth's status as a major tourist destination and regional hub. Anti-social behaviour followed closely at 21.7%, a category where local enforcement priorities may have influenced reporting patterns. Seasonal context suggests that January's reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours may have dampened certain crime types, though the persistent presence of violent crime indicates ongoing challenges in managing public safety. The data also highlights a stark contrast between Bournemouth's shoplifting rates (0.8 per 1,000) and the UK average (0.6 per 1,000), a 45% disparity that could reflect the town's high street retail density. This snapshot underscores the need for targeted interventions in areas with concentrated commercial activity, while also acknowledging the broader demographic and geographic factors shaping the local crime profile.

Bournemouth experienced significant fluctuations in specific crime categories during January 2026. Theft from the person saw a 100% increase compared to December, rising from 8 to 16 incidents. This sharp rise may be linked to the post-holiday period. Shoplifting also increased by 28.5%, from 130 to 167 cases, a trend that could reflect the continued operation of retail outlets during the month. Conversely, bicycle theft decreased by 40%, falling from 25 to 15 incidents—a change that may be partly attributed to the shorter days and colder weather typical of January. Anti-social behaviour rates in Bournemouth were 76% higher than the UK average, a discrepancy that could stem from the area's high population density and the presence of multiple leisure and entertainment venues. Meanwhile, possession of weapons fell by 50% compared to the previous month, though this category remains well below the UK average. These variations illustrate the dynamic nature of local crime patterns, with some categories responding to seasonal shifts while others remain consistently elevated. Residents may find the 76% above-average anti-social behaviour rate particularly relevant, as it suggests a need for community-focused policing strategies in high-traffic areas.

Bournemouth's crime rate in January 2026 (7.4 per 1,000) marked a 9.1% decrease from the previous month's rate of 8.2, indicating a modest downward trend. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 48 crimes per day, a figure that translates to one reported crime for roughly every 135 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate provides a tangible measure of the frequency of crime in the area, though this is a local figure and does not directly compare to national averages. When considering the population context, Bournemouth's 202,207 residents mean that each individual faces a relatively high risk of encountering crime, particularly in categories such as anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. The 12.1% gap between Bournemouth's crime rate and the UK average underscores the area's distinct challenges, even as the month-on-month decline suggests some progress in reducing overall crime. This comparison highlights the need for sustained efforts to address local disparities while also acknowledging the broader national context in which Bournemouth's crime statistics are situated.