Halstead (Braintree) Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Halstead (Braintree)

Halstead (Braintree), with a population of 14,953, has an overall crime rate of 69.9 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure places the area significantly below the national average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000 people, indicating a relatively safer environment. The area's safety is further reinforced by its score of 83 out of 100, which is above the UK average safety score of 78/100. However, over the past year, Halstead (Braintree) has experienced an increasing trend in crime, with a 16.9% rise in its overall crime rate. This trend provides important context for the detailed crime data that follows.

Crime Type Analysis in Halstead (Braintree)

An analysis of crime types in Halstead (Braintree) reveals that Violence and sexual offences are the most common, making up 40.3% of all crimes, at a rate of 28.1 per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting is the second most prevalent, accounting for 14.1% of the total (9.8 per 1,000), followed by Anti-social behaviour, which represents 7.6% of all crimes (5.3 per 1,000). These three categories are the most significant in the area.

Focusing on property-related crime, Halstead (Braintree) records a rate of 26.4 per 1,000 people, which is lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes burglary (2.3 per 1,000), shoplifting (9.8 per 1,000), other theft (4.4 per 1,000), vehicle crime (4.0 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (5.1 per 1,000), theft from the person (0.3 per 1,000), robbery (0.3 per 1,000), and bicycle theft (0.2 per 1,000). While the property crime rate is below the national average, residents, particularly homeowners, should remain vigilant and consider appropriate security measures given the overall increasing trend.

Crime Trends in Halstead (Braintree)

Halstead (Braintree) has seen an increasing trend in its crime rate, with a year-over-year rise of 16.9%. This upward shift indicates a changing safety landscape within the area. Examining the monthly trend data provides a more granular view. The crime rate per 1,000 residents started at 6.8 in October 2024, dropped to 4.6 in November 2024, and then fluctuated, reaching a peak of 7.3 in April 2025. By September 2025, the rate was 5.4. While there have been monthly dips, the overall pattern indicates a concerning increase in crime over the past year, suggesting that residents should be aware of this trend.

Crime Time Patterns in Halstead (Braintree)

Crime patterns in Halstead (Braintree) show distinct variations throughout the day. The morning period, between 6am and 12pm, is marked by a notable concentration of theft and vehicle crime, likely linked to daily commutes and commercial activity. As the day progresses into the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft and burglary become highly prevalent, suggesting opportunistic crime during daytime hours when properties may be unattended. The evening hours (6pm-12am) see a rise in 'other' crimes and vehicle offences, along with continued burglary risks and theft. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime is predominant, with a significant presence of 'other' crimes and burglary also contributing to the pattern.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To understand Halstead (Braintree)'s crime rates within its regional context, it is helpful to compare it with similar nearby areas. Halstead's overall crime rate of 69.9 per 1,000 is likely higher than more rural settlements like Gosfield (not provided) and Pebmarsh (not provided). It is also comparable to or potentially higher than Colne Engaine and Earls Colne (46.9 per 1,000). Halstead, as a larger urban settlement within the Braintree district, naturally experiences a different crime profile than smaller, more dispersed communities. This comparison helps to contextualise its safety standing within the immediate vicinity.

Protecting Your Property in Halstead (Braintree)

With a property crime rate of 26.4 per 1,000 residents in Halstead (Braintree), which is below the UK average, and an overall increasing crime trend, proactive home security is a crucial consideration. Traditional security cameras often only provide reactive footage of a burglary after it has occurred, rather than preventing the intrusion. For truly effective protection, a preventative approach is essential.

Consider implementing an advanced, AI-powered home security system like scOS. This technology is engineered to prevent crime by detecting threats at the property boundary before they escalate. Unlike basic DIY cameras, scOS offers multi-camera intelligence, vigilantly monitoring all cameras simultaneously without missing crucial details. Features such as DVLA vehicle verification can instantly identify suspicious vehicles with false plates, while its pattern learning capabilities distinguish between routine activities from genuine threats, minimising false alarms. The system's autonomous response, including activating lights and engaging speakers, is designed to deter intruders by removing their element of surprise, prompting them to abandon their plans quickly. Investing in professional-grade security like scOS provides a significant deterrent, making your property a less attractive target for opportunistic criminals.