Ampthill Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Ampthill's crime rate in January 2026 stood at 3.4 per 1,000 residents, a figure 50% below the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000. This stark contrast with national trends highlights the area's unique crime profile, shaped by its status as a built-up area within a largely rural region. Violence and sexual offences accounted for the largest share of crimes (48.4%), though this category's rate of 1.7 per 1,000 was 32% lower than the UK average. The seasonal context of January—post-holiday, with reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours—likely contributed to the lower frequency of outdoor crimes, though this was offset by a notable 50% increase in burglary cases. The area's overall safety is underscored by its low property crime rates, with vehicle crime and public order offences both below the UK average. However, the rise in burglary challenges the perception of Ampthill as a consistently low-risk area, suggesting that local factors such as housing density or seasonal vulnerabilities may play a role. The data also reveals a significant drop in criminal damage and arson, which fell by 80% from the previous month, a shift consistent with the reduced activity typical of January. These patterns reflect a combination of seasonal trends and the area's character, with its relatively low crime rates offering a contrast to the UK's generally higher levels of reported incidents.

January 2026 saw a 50% increase in burglary cases, rising from two to three incidents, an unexpected spike in an area typically marked by low property crime. This shift contrasts with an 80% drop in criminal damage and arson, which fell from five to one, possibly linked to seasonal factors such as reduced outdoor activity during colder months. Meanwhile, other theft increased by 25%, highlighting a growing concern in less severe property crimes. These changes reflect a nuanced crime picture, with violent crime remaining the most prevalent category (48.4% of total incidents) but significantly below the UK average for this category (32% lower). The data also reveals that anti-social behaviour decreased by 25%, and public order offences fell by 50%, suggesting potential improvements in community behaviour or targeted policing efforts. For residents, the sharp rise in burglary underscores the need for continued vigilance in securing homes, despite the overall decline in crime rates.

Ampthill's crime rate in January 2026 dropped by 31.2% compared to the previous month, reflecting a significant decline from 5.0 to 3.4 per 1,000 residents. This reduction aligns with seasonal patterns typical of January, a post-holiday period marked by reduced retail activity and shorter daylight hours, which may partly explain the lower frequency of outdoor crimes. On a daily basis, the area experienced an average of one crime per day, a figure that underscores the relatively low overall risk for residents. When considering the population context, the monthly exposure rate of one crime for every 292 residents highlights the area's safety profile, particularly when compared to the UK average. This suggests that while Ampthill is not immune to crime, its residents face a much lower risk than the national average, a trend consistent with its status as a built-up area within a largely rural county. The drop in crime also contrasts with the UK's typically higher seasonal fluctuations, though local factors such as community engagement and policing strategies may contribute to this stability.