South Woodham Ferrers Crime Rate April 2024 | Monthly Statistics

South Woodham Ferrers recorded a crime rate of 3.4 per 1,000 residents in April 2024, placing it 55.8% below the UK average of 7.7. This stark divergence from national trends underscores the area's unique characteristics. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 35.2% of all crimes, yet remained 53% below the UK average for this category, reflecting a broader pattern of lower violent crime in the area. Other theft (11.1%) and anti-social behaviour (11.1%) were the next most common categories, though both also showed marked underperformance relative to national averages. The spring season brought increased outdoor activity, potentially linked to the relatively low rates of vehicle crime and shoplifting compared to UK norms. While the area's built-up status within Chelmsford may contribute to higher foot traffic and community oversight, the absence of major retail hubs or nightlife districts likely explains the subdued property crime rates. Seasonal factors such as Easter and milder weather may have influenced crime patterns. The overall profile suggests a community with lower exposure to violent crime and property theft, consistent with its role as a suburban settlement rather than a dense urban centre.

April 2024 saw a 200% surge in other theft, rising from 2 to 6 incidents, the most significant single-month increase. Bicycle theft doubled from zero to one case, while burglary rose by 50% (2 to 3). These spikes contrast with steep declines in drug-related crimes (-80%, from 5 to 1) and public order offences (-57.1%, from 7 to 3). Violence and sexual offences, though remaining the most common category, were 53% below the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000. The area's performance on anti-social behaviour (0.4 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (0.3 per 1,000) also showed 67% and 36% underperformance respectively compared to national benchmarks. Bicycle theft and possession of weapons both exceeded UK averages by 43%, an anomaly that may reflect local factors such as cycling infrastructure or enforcement priorities. Residents might find the 200% increase in other theft particularly concerning, as it suggests a shift in criminal activity that warrants local awareness.

April's crime rate of 3.4 per 1,000 represents a 17% decrease from the previous month's 4.1, indicating a downward trend. On a daily basis, the area experienced roughly 2 crimes per day, a figure that places it among the lowest in the UK for comparable settlements. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 297 residents, a monthly exposure rate significantly lower than the UK average. With a population of 16,056, the area's crime statistics suggest a relatively safe environment, though the 43% above-average rates for bicycle theft and weapon possession highlight areas for targeted attention. The 17% monthly decline aligns with seasonal patterns, as Easter holidays and spring weather may have reduced opportunities for certain types of crime. However, the absence of a UK-wide daily crime comparison means local figures must be interpreted within the context of South Woodham Ferrers' specific demographics and geography. The population-scaled perspective reinforces the area's position as a low-crime suburb, though the anomaly in bicycle-related crimes indicates the need for further local analysis.