Cardiff Crime Rate May 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Cardiff's crime rate in May 2024 stood at 11.2 per 1,000, placing it 33.3% above the UK average of 8.4 per 1,000. This figure, while concerning, reflects a combination of urban dynamics and seasonal factors. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime profile, accounting for 28.6% of all incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour at 16.1% and shoplifting at 13.5%. These patterns align with Cardiff's status as a major urban centre, where high population density and commercial activity contribute to elevated levels of certain crimes. The 3.2 per 1,000 rate for violence and sexual offences, 13% above the UK average, may be linked to the city's vibrant nightlife and public spaces. Similarly, shoplifting's 134% gap compared to national figures could be attributed to Cardiff's retail presence, particularly in areas like Cardiff City Centre. Seasonal factors in May—such as longer evenings, bank holidays, and increased outdoor socialising—may partly explain the rise in anti-social behaviour and public order offences. While the overall rate remains troubling, the data also reveals pockets of improvement, in the 29% decrease in burglary compared to the UK average. This suggests that targeted policing or community initiatives in certain areas may be yielding results. However, the stark contrast with the UK average highlights the need for sustained efforts to address systemic issues. The 1.5 per 1,000 rate for shoplifting, which is 134% above the national average, underscores the urgent need for retail security enhancements and community engagement strategies. As the city navigates this challenging period, balancing the demands of urban life with public safety remains a critical priority.

May 2024 saw a significant decrease in possession of weapons, with a 47.1% drop from 34 to 18 incidents. This reduction, while notable, was overshadowed by sharp increases in robbery (+104.2%), theft from the person (+80.5%), and bicycle theft (+36.7%). The latter's 36.7% rise to 108 incidents is particularly concerning, given Cardiff's urban density and the prevalence of cycling as a transport mode. Violence and sexual offences remained the most common crime category at 28.6% of total reports, a figure 13% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour also exceeded expectations, with a 24% gap compared to national figures. These trends may partly explain the overall 17% month-on-month increase in crime rates. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in areas with high foot traffic and during extended evening hours.

Cardiff's crime rate in May 2024 rose by 17.0% compared to April's 9.6 per 1,000, reflecting a marked shift in the local crime profile. On a daily basis, 139 crimes were reported each day, a figure that translates to one crime occurring for roughly every 89 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate, while stark, provides context for residents: for every individual in Cardiff, there was a 1.1% chance of being directly affected by crime in May. When considering the population-scaled perspective, the 383,919 residents of Cardiff experienced a crime rate 33.3% above the UK average, a disparity that underscores the need for targeted interventions. The previous month's data, while lower, suggests that the current rate may be influenced by seasonal factors such as extended evenings and increased social activity, which could contribute to higher incidents of anti-social behaviour and public order offences.