Witham Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Witham

Witham, an urban settlement with a population of 24,838, records an overall crime rate of 82.3 per 1,000 residents per year. This places Witham below the national average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000 people, indicating a relatively safer environment. The area's safety score is 80 out of 100, which is also above the UK average safety score of 78/100. Over the past year, Witham has experienced a positive trend, with its overall crime rate decreasing by 6.5%. This downward trend provides important context for residents and those considering the local crime landscape.

Crime Type Analysis in Witham

An analysis of crime types in Witham reveals that Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 43.6% of all recorded crimes, at a rate of 35.9 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by Anti-social behaviour, which makes up 9.7% of total crimes (8.0 per 1,000), and Criminal damage and arson, representing 8.8% of the total (7.2 per 1,000). These three categories represent the most significant crime challenges in the area.

Regarding property-related crime, Witham records a rate of 26.9 per 1,000 people, which is below the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes burglary (2.5 per 1,000), shoplifting (6.5 per 1,000), other theft (5.5 per 1,000), vehicle crime (4.0 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (7.2 per 1,000), bicycle theft (0.5 per 1,000), theft from the person (0.4 per 1,000), and robbery (0.4 per 1,000). While the property crime rate is below the national average, residents, particularly homeowners, are encouraged to consider robust security measures to protect their properties.

Crime Trends in Witham

Witham has experienced a positive shift in its crime landscape, with an overall year-over-year decrease of 6.5%. This reduction in crime rates is a reassuring indicator for the area. Examining the monthly trend data reveals fluctuations throughout the year. The crime rate per 1,000 residents started at 8.1 in October 2024 and generally showed a downward trend, reaching 7.0 by September 2025. Notable lows were observed in February 2025 (5.2) and March/April 2025 (6.2), while a peak was seen in July 2025 (8.3). Despite these monthly variations, the overarching trend is one of declining crime, contributing to a safer environment for residents.

Crime Time Patterns in Witham

Crime patterns in Witham exhibit distinct variations throughout the day. The morning period, from 6am to 12pm, is predominantly marked by theft and vehicle crime, likely linked to daily commutes and early commercial activities. As the day progresses into the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft remains the most prevalent crime type, with burglary also being a significant concern, suggesting opportunistic crime during hours when properties might be unattended. The evening hours (6pm-12am) show a rise in 'other' crimes and vehicle offences, alongside continued burglary and theft incidents. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime and 'other' offences are the most dominant, with burglary also showing a heightened percentage.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To provide a localised understanding of safety, Witham's crime statistics can be compared with its nearby areas. Witham's overall crime rate of 82.3 per 1,000 is higher than Wickham Bishops (not provided) and Silver End (65.0 per 1,000), which are generally smaller and more residential. It is also higher than Nounsley (not provided). However, Witham's rate is comparable to, or potentially lower than, larger urban centres. This comparison helps residents understand Witham's safety profile within its immediate regional context, suggesting it maintains a moderate position relative to its neighbours.

Protecting Your Property in Witham

Given Witham's property crime rate of 26.9 per 1,000 residents, which is below the national average, proactive home security is a valuable consideration. Traditional security systems, such as standard CCTV cameras, often serve to record a burglary after it has happened, rather than actively preventing the intrusion. For truly effective protection, a preventative approach is key.

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 reactive systems, scOS offers multi-camera intelligence, ensuring all cameras are monitored simultaneously without missing crucial details. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly identify suspicious vehicles with false plates, while its pattern learning capabilities distinguish between routine activities and genuine threats, reducing 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.