Shefford Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Shefford

Shefford reports an annual crime rate of 97.6 per 1,000 residents, which is slightly above the national average of 93.4 per 1,000. The town has a safety score of 81 out of 100, which is above the UK average of 78. The latest data indicates a stable trend, with a decrease of 4.6% year-over-year. This introduction provides a clear picture of the local crime situation, setting the stage for a more detailed analysis of specific crime types and patterns within Shefford.

Crime Type Analysis in Shefford

In Shefford, Shoplifting is the most common crime type, making up 32.6% of all reported incidents at a rate of 31.8 per 1,000 people. Violence and sexual offences are the second most frequent, accounting for 22.5% of the total with a rate of 21.9 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour ranks as the third most prevalent offence, representing 16.9% of crimes at 16.5 per 1,000.

Considering overall property-related crime, which includes burglary (1.6 per 1,000), theft from person (0.1 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (4.5 per 1,000), bicycle theft (0.3 per 1,000), vehicle crime (6.9 per 1,000), and other theft (4.8 per 1,000), the combined rate is 50.4 per 1,000 people. This figure is notably higher than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. Residents and homeowners in Shefford should be particularly vigilant about property security, with a strong focus on deterring shoplifting and safeguarding against vehicle crime, to enhance safety in the area.

Crime Trends in Shefford

Shefford has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a decrease of 4.6% year-over-year. Monthly data shows significant fluctuations, with crime rates per 1,000 residents ranging widely between 4.9 and 16.4. For instance, the rate was 16.4 in October 2024, dropped to 4.9 in March 2025, and then rose to 7.4 in August 2025, before finishing at 5.2 in September 2025. This variability indicates a dynamic crime environment, and residents should stay informed about these shifts. The overall decreasing trend is positive, but ongoing awareness of monthly patterns is advisable.

Crime Time Patterns in Shefford

Crime patterns in Shefford show distinct variations throughout the day. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are marked by elevated theft activity (42%) and significant vehicle crime (33%). In the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft peaks significantly at 53% of incidents. As the day transitions into evening (6pm-12am), vehicle crime becomes most frequent at 37%, with diverse crime types also significant at 35%. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime dominates, accounting for 68% of incidents, indicating a heightened risk for vehicles when properties are typically unattended.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To contextualise Shefford's crime statistics, it's useful to compare them with neighbouring areas. Campton, Clifton (Central Bedfordshire), Chicksands, and Meppershall all offer various points of comparison. Shefford generally maintains a safety profile that can be compared to these smaller, more rural communities. Understanding these regional differences helps to paint a clearer picture of Shefford's safety within the wider Central Bedfordshire district, reinforcing its position relative to both more rural and more urbanised neighbours.

Enhancing Security in Shefford

With Shefford's property crime rate of 50.4 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the national average, proactive home security measures are a critical 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.