Brighton and Hove Crime Rate February 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Brighton and Hove’s crime rate in February 2024 stood at 8.4 per 1,000 residents, placing it 18.3% above the UK average of 7.1. This figure reflects a combination of local factors, including the city’s status as a major coastal resort, a hub for universities, and a destination for both domestic and international tourists. The most prevalent crime types were violence and sexual offences (33% of total), followed by anti-social behaviour (15.7%) and shoplifting (10%). These patterns align with Brighton’s character: a densely populated urban area with a high concentration of nightlife, retail, and student populations, all of which may contribute to higher rates of violent and property-related crime. Seasonal context also plays a role, as February—a winter month with reduced outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—may have dampened certain types of crime, such as vehicle theft and burglary, while amplifying others, like anti-social behaviour in enclosed spaces. The rate of violence and sexual offences, in particular, remains 12% above the UK average, a figure that may be partly explained by the city’s vibrant nightlife and the associated risks of alcohol-fuelled incidents. However, the overall rate is not without its positive trends: for instance, the decline in robbery and burglary suggests that efforts to enhance public safety and deter property crime may be yielding results. The challenge for local authorities lies in addressing the persistent gaps between Brighton and Hove’s crime profile and the UK average, while also capitalising on the areas where progress is evident.

February 2024 saw a significant 48.5% drop in robbery cases, with incidents falling from 33 to 17. This decline, coupled with a 33.8% reduction in burglary (from 80 to 53), highlights a marked improvement in property-related crime. Conversely, anti-social behaviour rose by 7.5%, increasing from 347 to 373, a trend that may reflect the challenges of managing public spaces during colder months. Other crime also saw a sharp increase, rising by 52.3% (from 44 to 67), suggesting emerging issues that warrant closer attention. Brighton and Hove’s rate for violence and sexual offences (2.8 per 1,000) is 12% above the UK average, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in this category. Meanwhile, vehicle crime and burglary both performed below the UK average, with vehicle crime 32% lower and burglary 33% lower, possibly linked to the city’s higher police presence and community initiatives in key areas.

Brighton and Hove’s crime rate in February 2024 fell to 8.4 per 1,000 residents, a 5.2% reduction from the previous month’s rate of 8.9. This decline, though modest, aligns with seasonal patterns typical of winter months, when outdoor activity wanes and community-focused policing efforts may see heightened engagement. Daily crime figures for the month averaged 82 reported incidents, translating to roughly one crime for every 119 residents over the course of February. This monthly exposure metric offers a tangible benchmark for residents, illustrating the frequency of crime in a non-urgent context. When compared to the UK average, Brighton and Hove’s rate remains elevated, but the month-on-month improvement suggests potential momentum in crime reduction strategies. The population context further underscores that, despite the local rate being 18.3% above the UK average, the absolute number of crimes is influenced by the city’s size and characteristics, such as its dense urban core and tourist appeal, which may inherently drive higher reported incidents.