Breckland Crime Rate June 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Breckland’s crime rate in June 2024 remained lower than the UK average, with a recorded rate of 5.0 crimes per 1,000 residents—39.0% below the national figure of 8.2 per 1,000. This sustained performance reflects a combination of local policing strategies and the area’s demographic profile, which includes a mix of rural and semi-urban communities. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences (46.4% of total), followed by anti-social behaviour (13.7%) and criminal damage and arson (8.6%). These patterns align with Breckland’s character as a largely rural district with smaller towns and villages, where interpersonal disputes and property-related incidents are more common than in densely populated urban centres. Seasonal factors also played a role, as June marked the beginning of summer—a period typically associated with increased outdoor activity and tourism in nearby coastal areas. However, Breckland’s crime rates remained stable, with no sharp spikes in theft or vehicle crime, which may be attributed to the area’s lower population density and limited retail or nightlife hubs. The proportion of violent crime was slightly below the UK average (2.3 vs 2.8 per 1,000), suggesting that community engagement initiatives and local law enforcement efforts may have contributed to this trend. Overall, the data illustrates a consistent pattern of lower crime rates in Breckland compared to the national average, though targeted interventions may still be needed in areas where anti-social behaviour and violence persist.

June 2024 saw several notable shifts in crime trends within Breckland. The most significant decrease was in drug-related offences, which fell by 37.5% compared to the previous month, dropping from 32 to 20 incidents. This decline may be linked to seasonal changes, as warmer weather and increased outdoor activity could reduce opportunities for drug transactions in more secluded areas. Conversely, 'Other crime' increased sharply by 75%, rising from 16 to 28 incidents—a category that includes a range of non-specific offences and may require further investigation to identify underlying causes. Possession of weapons also rose by 55.6%, from 9 to 14 cases, though this remains well below the UK average. Meanwhile, vehicle crime dropped by 31.6% (19 to 13), due to reduced foot traffic and fewer visitors in the early summer months. The breakdown of crime types also revealed that Breckland’s violent crime rate (2.3 per 1,000) was 17% below the UK average, while anti-social behaviour (0.7 per 1,000) was 50% below the national figure. These disparities highlight the area’s unique characteristics, where community cohesion and lower population density may contribute to lower levels of public disorder. Residents may find the sharp increase in 'Other crime' particularly concerning, though further data will be needed to determine whether this reflects a genuine rise in activity or a shift in how certain incidents are categorised.

Breckland’s crime rate in June 2024 fell by 10.9% compared to the previous month, declining from 5.6 to 5.0 per 1,000 residents. This month-on-month reduction aligns with broader seasonal patterns, as summer begins and the area experiences fewer incidents of crime typically associated with colder weather or indoor confinement. On a daily basis, Breckland recorded an average of 24 crimes per day in June, a figure that, while relatively low, underscores the need for continued vigilance in specific areas where crime rates remain above the UK average. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 201 residents—a monthly exposure rate that is significantly lower than the national average. This statistic is particularly relevant for residents, as it provides a concrete measure of the likelihood of experiencing crime in Breckland compared to other parts of the UK. With a population of 146,620, the area’s crime profile suggests that its lower density and rural character contribute to a more manageable crime environment. However, the persistence of certain categories—such as 'Other crime'—above the UK average indicates that targeted measures may still be necessary to address emerging issues. When viewed in context, Breckland’s crime statistics demonstrate both the effectiveness of existing strategies and the opportunities for further improvement in specific areas.