Brentwood Crime Rate October 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Brentwood's crime rate in October 2024 stood at 6.2 per 1,000 residents, placing it 23.5% below the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. This figure, while modest by national standards, reflects a mix of crime types that align with the area's character. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 29.9% of all crimes, a share that is 29% lower than the UK average. This may be attributed to Brentwood's suburban nature, where community cohesion and policing presence likely contribute to lower rates of violent incidents. Shoplifting, however, emerged as a significant concern, making up 15.2% of all crimes. This proportion is 39% above the UK average, suggesting that local retail areas or high-traffic zones may be particularly vulnerable to opportunistic theft. The seasonal context of October, with its darker evenings and Halloween-related activity, may have influenced these patterns, as reduced visibility and increased foot traffic can create conditions conducive to property crime. Vehicle crime also featured prominently, with 13.4% of all reported crimes, a rate 70% above the UK average. This could be linked to Brentwood's commuter profile, where parking lots and roadside parking may present opportunities for theft. While the overall crime rate remains relatively low, these specific trends highlight areas for targeted prevention efforts. The balance between violent and property crime suggests a community where personal safety is generally secure but where commercial areas require heightened vigilance. This profile aligns with typical suburban dynamics, where crime tends to cluster in specific zones rather than being evenly distributed across the population.

October saw a 120.6% increase in shoplifting, rising from 34 to 75 incidents. This jump, though not uncommon during the festive season, suggests heightened retail activity or targeted opportunism. The rate of shoplifting in Brentwood (1.0 per 1,000) is 39% above the UK average (0.7 per 1,000), a contrast to other categories where the area performs better. Violence and sexual offences (1.9 per 1,000) are 29% below the UK average (2.7 per 1,000), indicating a relatively safer environment for personal safety. Vehicle crime also rose 70% above the UK average (0.8 vs 0.5 per 1,000), potentially linked to increased parking in commercial areas. These disparities highlight the complex nature of local crime patterns, with some categories aligning with national trends and others diverging significantly. Residents may find the shoplifting statistic particularly relevant, as it directly impacts local businesses and consumer confidence.

Brentwood's crime rate in October 2024 rose 17.9% from 5.3 to 6.2 per 1,000 residents compared to September. This increase, though modest, reflects shifting patterns in local crime dynamics. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 16 crimes per day in October, a figure that contextualises the pace of incidents for residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 161 residents, a metric that highlights the monthly exposure to crime in a relatable way. With a population of 79,326, this rate translates to a manageable risk profile for most residents, though specific areas may see higher concentrations. The rise from the previous month may partly explain seasonal factors, such as darker evenings and Halloween-related activity, which can influence both victim behaviour and offender opportunities. This comparison underscores the importance of considering both absolute and relative measures when assessing local safety.