Bicester Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Bicester's crime rate in January 2026 was 7.1 per 1,000 residents, placing it 4.4% above the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000. This position relative to national data underscores the need for continued vigilance in an area that blends urban and suburban characteristics. The most prevalent crime types were violence and sexual offences (37% of total incidents), followed by shoplifting (28.6%). These figures reflect patterns consistent with Bicester's role as a regional hub with a mix of commercial and residential zones. The high rate of shoplifting—251% above the UK average—suggests that local retail areas may be particularly vulnerable, possibly due to foot traffic patterns or security measures. Violence and sexual offences, which were 4% above the UK average, could be influenced by factors such as the post-holiday period, when social interactions and potential tensions may increase. Seasonal context also plays a role: January, with its shorter days and reduced retail activity, typically sees lower outdoor crime rates. However, the persistence of high shoplifting figures indicates that targeted interventions in retail environments may be necessary. The overall crime rate, while slightly above the UK average, shows a 9.4% decrease from December 2025, suggesting some stabilisation in the local crime picture. This fluctuation may be attributed to a combination of seasonal factors, changes in police presence, or shifts in community engagement initiatives. The data highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between addressing immediate crime concerns and implementing long-term strategies that align with Bicester's unique demographic and geographic profile.

January 2026 saw a sharp 233.3% increase in burglary cases, rising from 3 to 10 incidents. This jump, coupled with a 50% rise in bicycle theft, points to a shift in property crime trends that may reflect seasonal factors or changes in local security practices. Violence and sexual offences also rose by 21.7%, from 83 to 101 cases—a significant increase that suggests heightened tensions or increased reporting during the post-holiday period. Conversely, drugs-related crimes fell by 90%, from 10 to 1 incident, potentially linked to the quieter nature of January following the Christmas rush. Theft from the person also dropped by two-thirds, a decline that may be attributed to reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours typical of the month. Shoplifting remained 251% above the UK average, highlighting a persistent challenge in Bicester's retail sector that could be addressed through targeted anti-theft measures in high-traffic areas.

Bicester's crime rate in January 2026 stood at 7.1 per 1,000 residents, a 9.4% decrease from the previous month's rate of 7.8 per 1,000. This decline, though modest, suggests a slight easing of pressure on local policing resources. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 9 crimes per day over the 31-day period, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 142 residents over the course of the month. When contextualised against the population of 38,656, this monthly exposure highlights the relative frequency of incidents in a built-up area, where urban density and local amenities may contribute to higher visibility of certain crime types. The rate remains 4.4% above the UK average, a persistent gap that underscores the need for targeted interventions in Bicester's specific crime profile. This comparison with national data reinforces the importance of localised strategies, as the area's distinct demographic and geographic features—such as its proximity to Oxford and its mix of retail and residential zones—likely shape its unique crime profile.