Dunstable Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Dunstable

Dunstable records an annual crime rate of 84.3 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average of 93.4 per 1,000. The town achieves a safety score of 81 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 78, suggesting a relatively secure environment. The latest data indicates a stable trend, with a minimal year-over-year decrease of 0.1%. This overview provides a foundational understanding of the local crime situation, setting the context for a more detailed exploration of specific crime types and their patterns.

Crime Type Analysis in Dunstable

In Dunstable, Violence and sexual offences are the most frequent crime type, making up 32.3% of all reported incidents at a rate of 27.2 per 1,000 people. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common, accounting for 17.6% of the total with a rate of 14.8 per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting ranks as the third most prevalent offence, representing 9.1% of crimes at 7.7 per 1,000.

Considering overall property-related crime, which includes burglary (2.9 per 1,000), theft from person (0.4 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (5.9 per 1,000), bicycle theft (0.7 per 1,000), vehicle crime (5.9 per 1,000), and other theft (6.1 per 1,000), the combined rate is 30.9 per 1,000 people. This figure is lower than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000, suggesting that residents and homeowners in Dunstable face a comparatively lower risk regarding their possessions. Focusing on prevention, particularly for shoplifting and vehicle-related incidents, can further enhance local security.

Crime Trends in Dunstable

Dunstable has maintained a stable crime trend over the past year, with a negligible year-over-year decrease of 0.1%. Monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents have shown some fluctuation, generally ranging between 5.9 and 8.1. For example, the rate was 8.1 in October 2024, dropped to 6.4 in February 2025, and then reached 8.1 again in July 2025, before finishing at 7.3 in September 2025. This consistent pattern, without significant spikes or drops, suggests a predictable crime environment. Residents should stay informed about these minor shifts, but the overall stability indicates no major escalating threats within the community.

Crime Time Patterns in Dunstable

Dunstable's crime patterns exhibit variations throughout the day. In the morning (6am-12pm), theft is the most significant issue, representing 42% of incidents, with vehicle crime also notable at 22%. Afternoon hours (12pm-6pm) see theft peak at 47% of crimes. As the evening progresses (6pm-12am), 'other' crime types become the most frequent at 46%, with vehicle crime and theft still present. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime dominates, accounting for 50% of incidents, indicating a heightened risk when properties are typically unattended.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To contextualise Dunstable's crime statistics, it's useful to compare them with neighbouring areas. Smaller rural communities like Totternhoe, Tilsworth, and Eaton Bray and Edlesborough typically exhibit lower crime volumes due to their population density and characteristics. Conversely, Houghton Regis, a similarly sized urban area, provides a direct point of comparison for local residents. Understanding these regional differences helps to paint a clearer picture of Dunstable's safety profile within the wider Central Bedfordshire district, reinforcing its position relative to both more rural and more urbanised neighbours.

Enhancing Security in Dunstable

With Dunstable's property crime rate of 30.9 per 1,000 people, which is slightly below the national average, proactive home security measures are a practical consideration for residents. While many traditional security cameras provide footage after a crime, if you want to actively prevent incidents, consider advanced solutions. AI-powered home security operating systems like scOS offer proactive protection by detecting threats at the property boundary, intervening before a break-in occurs. Its multi-camera intelligence works simultaneously to identify potential intruders, initiating autonomous responses such as activating lights and engaging speakers to eliminate the element of surprise. Given that most burglars make a decision within 60 seconds, a visible and professional-grade deterrent like scOS signals serious protection, often causing them to move on. Investing in such technology shifts the focus from reactive recording to proactive prevention, enhancing the security of your home and possessions.