Cheltenham Crime Rate August 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominate Cheltenham's crime profile in August 2024, accounting for 30.6% of all reported crimes. With a total crime rate of 8.7 per 1,000 residents, the area exceeds the UK average by 6.1%, a figure that reflects persistent challenges in maintaining public safety. Anti-social behaviour follows closely, contributing 26.6% of incidents and standing 60% above the UK average. These patterns are consistent with Cheltenham's character as a tourist destination and spa town, where high foot traffic and seasonal fluctuations influence crime dynamics. The month's peak holiday season likely amplifies certain risks, such as increased opportunities for anti-social behaviour in public spaces and potential vulnerabilities in residential areas left unoccupied during summer breaks. Shoplifting, though a smaller proportion of total crimes (9.3%), remains 13% above the UK average, suggesting retail areas remain a focal point for property-related offences. While violent crime rates align with the UK average for this category, the local context of Cheltenham's tourism-driven economy may contribute to higher rates of non-violent but disruptive crimes such as anti-social behaviour. This interplay between local demographics and seasonal trends shapes the crime picture, requiring targeted approaches that balance community engagement with policing priorities.

August 2024 saw a sharp 175% increase in possession of weapons offences, rising from 4 to 11 incidents. This spike, while small in absolute terms, underscores a significant shift in reported criminal activity. Robbery rates also rose by 50%, with 12 incidents recorded, compared to 8 in July. Conversely, drug-related crimes dropped by 60% (25 to 10), suggesting a possible reduction in illicit activity during the month. Anti-social behaviour remains a pressing concern, with rates 60% above the UK average (2.3 vs 1.4 per 1,000). This category alone accounts for 26.6% of all crimes, highlighting its disproportionate impact on local communities. The 13.3% rise in bicycle theft (15 to 17) aligns with seasonal patterns, as August is a peak time for cycling in the area.

Cheltenham's crime rate in August 2024 (8.7 per 1,000 residents) shows a slight 1.6% increase compared to July's 8.5 per 1,000, reflecting a stable trend. This equates to approximately 34 reported crimes per day, a figure consistent with prior months. Over the course of August, one crime occurred for roughly every 115 residents, illustrating the monthly exposure rate. When scaled to the local population of 121,739, this suggests that while crime remains present, it does not overwhelm the community. The rate remains 6.1% above the UK average, though the month-on-month change is minimal, indicating no dramatic shift in overall safety. These figures help contextualise crime as a routine part of daily life, rather than an acute issue, for most residents.