Bicester Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Bicester’s crime profile in February 2026 reveals a distinct mix of violent and property-related offences, shaped by the area’s character as a built-up district within Cherwell. The overall crime rate of 6.5 per 1,000 residents is 1.6% above the UK average, but this figure masks significant variations across crime types. Violence and sexual offences remain the most prevalent category, accounting for 31.6% of all reported crimes, though this rate is 14% below the UK average—a trend consistent with the area’s relatively low levels of severe violent crime. Shoplifting, however, stands out as a major concern, contributing 27.2% of all crimes at a rate 210% above the UK average. This disparity likely reflects Bicester’s retail infrastructure, which may attract opportunistic theft during periods of low outdoor activity. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour and public order offences are below UK averages, suggesting a generally orderly environment. The seasonal context of February—marked by reduced outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—may have dampened certain types of crime, such as vehicle-related offences, which fell sharply in the month. However, the persistence of shoplifting and the emergence of 'other crime' as a rapidly growing category indicate the need for targeted interventions. These patterns underscore the importance of understanding Bicester’s unique social and economic landscape, where retail hubs and community dynamics play a critical role in shaping crime trends.

February 2026 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with shoplifting remaining the second-most reported offence at 27.2% of all crimes, a rate 210% above the UK average. This stark contrast to the UK figure suggests a local factor—possibly the presence of retail hubs or high streets—driving this category. Meanwhile, violent crime fell by 21.8% compared to January, dropping from 101 to 79 offences. of total crimes. Other crime categories also saw significant changes: 'other crime' surged by 233.3%, rising from 3 to 10 incidents, while vehicle crime plummeted by 60% as reported cases fell from 10 to 4. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of crime in Bicester, with some categories aligning closely with seasonal trends and others reflecting more localized influences. For residents, the 210% disparity in shoplifting rates offers a clear insight into potential vulnerabilities in local retail environments.

Bicester's crime rate in February 2026 fell to 6.5 per 1,000 residents, an 8.4% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 7.1. This decline aligns with typical seasonal patterns observed in built-up areas during winter, when outdoor activity diminishes and retail footfall declines. On a daily basis, 9 crimes were reported over 28 days, equivalent to roughly one crime for every 155 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure figure provides context for local residents, showing that while crime remains present, its frequency is not extreme relative to the population. When compared to the UK average, Bicester’s overall rate is marginally higher (1.6% above), but this is offset by specific categories where the area performs better, such as violence and sexual offences, which are 14% below the UK average. The population-scaled perspective highlights that Bicester’s crime profile reflects both local dynamics and broader national trends, with no single factor dominating the statistical picture.