Witham Crime Rate October 2025 | Monthly Statistics

October 2025 marked a notable shift in Witham's crime profile, with the most dramatic change being the 300% surge in robbery incidents. This spike, though small in absolute numbers, highlights the volatility of crime patterns in a built-up area that remains 2.6% below the UK average. The overall crime rate of 7.5 per 1,000 residents is slightly higher than the previous month's 7.0, reflecting a growing trend that may be influenced by seasonal factors. Violence and sexual offences dominate the crime profile, accounting for 46.5% of all reported incidents—32% above the UK average. This disparity could be attributed to Witham's proximity to Braintree and the presence of retail and commercial hubs that attract both residents and visitors. Anti-social behaviour also rose sharply, linked to the Halloween season and the transition to darker evenings, which may increase incidents in public spaces. However, other categories such as public order offences fell by nearly 60%, suggesting that targeted interventions or changes in community activity may have had a mitigating effect. The data also reveals that Witham's rates for shoplifting, vehicle crime, and other theft are below the UK average, consistent with the area's relatively low levels of property-related crime. These findings underscore the combination of local geography, seasonal rhythms, and policing priorities in shaping the area's crime picture.

The most striking change in October was the 300% increase in robbery, with incidents rising from 1 to 4. This sharp rise, while small in absolute terms, represents a significant shift in crime dynamics. Anti-social behaviour also surged by 84.6%, from 13 to 24, a jump that may reflect seasonal factors such as Halloween-related disturbances or changes in community activity. Conversely, public order offences fell by 59.1%, dropping from 22 to 9, a decrease that could be linked to increased policing efforts or changes in local events. Violence and sexual offences remain the most prevalent category, accounting for 46.5% of all crimes, a rate 32% above the UK average. This disparity suggests Witham's unique profile, where violent crime rates are higher than national trends. Meanwhile, vehicle crime fell by 28.6%, aligning with broader UK trends in this category. For residents, the 300% rise in robbery is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or late-night activity.

Witham's crime rate in October 2025 rose 6.9% from the previous month's 7.0 to 7.5 per 1,000 residents, marking a slight upward trend. Locally, this translates to roughly 6 crimes reported each day, a figure that, while consistent with the area's historical patterns, reflects the seasonal dynamics of October. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 134 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the regularity of crime in the built-up area. This figure is contextualised by Witham's population of 24,838, which means the crime rate remains relatively low compared to larger urban centres. The increase is most pronounced in violent crime, which now constitutes nearly half of all reported incidents. This shift in crime mix may be influenced by factors such as the transition to darker evenings and the Halloween season, which can alter community behaviour and patrol patterns. While the rate remains 2.6% below the UK average, the localised spikes in specific categories highlight the need for targeted policing strategies in high-risk areas.