Aberystwyth Crime Rate November 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Aberystwyth’s crime rate in November 2023 stood at 9.9 per 1,000 residents, 32.0% above the UK average of 7.5 per 1,000. This figure reflects a combination of local factors, including the area’s role as a tourist destination and the seasonal impact of shorter days and colder weather. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime profile, accounting for 48.5% of all reported incidents, a rate 85% higher than the UK average. This may be influenced by the town’s high foot traffic during events like Bonfire Night and the influx of visitors during the off-peak season. Anti-social behaviour and criminal damage also exceeded UK averages, potentially linked to the challenges of managing public spaces in a coastal town with a mix of residential and commercial areas. The seasonal context of November, with its dark evenings and the proximity of Black Friday, likely contributed to increased retail crime, though this remains a focal point for further analysis. While the overall rate remains elevated, the month-on-month reduction from 11.8 per 1,000 in October suggests some progress in addressing local crime trends. However, the persistent gap between Aberystwyth’s rates and the UK average indicates the need for sustained efforts to address underlying issues, such as the high incidence of violent crime and the challenges of managing anti-social behaviour in a small urban setting.

November 2023 marked a sharp increase in shoplifting, with reported cases doubling from six to 12, likely linked to Black Friday shopping activity. This surge, combined with a 100% rise in vehicle crime, contrasts with declines in drug-related offences and criminal damage. Violence and sexual offences, which account for nearly half of all crimes (48.5%), remain 85% above the UK average, a disparity that may reflect Aberystwyth’s status as a tourist destination with higher foot traffic in certain areas. Anti-social behaviour also rose, though by a smaller margin, while drugs offences fell by 33.3%, possibly due to seasonal shifts in illicit activity. The data underscores a mixed picture: while some categories show improvement, the continued elevation of violent crime highlights ongoing challenges. Residents might find the 100% increase in shoplifting particularly concerning, given the timing around major retail events.

November 2023 saw Aberystwyth’s crime rate drop by 16.0% compared to the previous month, falling from 11.8 to 9.9 per 1,000 residents. This decline aligns with seasonal patterns, as shorter days and colder weather may reduce outdoor activity, potentially limiting opportunities for certain crimes. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately five reported crimes per day, a figure that, while consistent with local rhythms, remains higher than the UK average when scaled to population size. Over the course of the month, one crime was reported for roughly every 101 residents, a monthly exposure rate that highlights the persistent presence of crime in the community. When compared to the UK average, Aberystwyth’s overall rate remains elevated, though the month-on-month reduction suggests some progress in addressing local challenges. The population context underscores the need for targeted measures, as even a modest rate translates to tangible incidents for residents.