Chichester Crime Rate

Introduction to Chichester Crime Statistics

Chichester Built-Up Area (BUA), with a population of 33,823, records an overall crime rate of 144.8 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is higher than the national average UK crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000. The area holds a safety score of 69 out of 100, which is below the UK average safety score of 78. Recent data indicates a stable trend in crime, with a minor 1.7% change year-over-year. This introduction provides an overview of the crime landscape, setting the context for a deeper dive into specific crime types, temporal patterns, and comparisons with neighbouring areas.

Crime Type Analysis in Chichester

Within the Chichester Built-Up Area, Violence and sexual offences represent the most significant crime category, accounting for 29.2% of all reported incidents, at a rate of 42.3 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common, making up 19.9% of total crimes, with 28.8 incidents per 1,000 people. Shoplifting ranks third, comprising 15.2% of offences at 22.0 per 1,000. These statistics highlight key challenges in maintaining public order and retail security within this urban area.

Property-related crime in Chichester BUA stands at 53.1 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This encompasses burglary (3.5 per 1,000), vehicle crime (3.6 per 1,000), other theft (7.5 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (10.2 per 1,000), bicycle theft (3.3 per 1,000), robbery (1.5 per 1,000), and theft from the person (1.4 per 1,000). The elevated property crime rate underscores the need for residents and businesses to implement robust security measures to protect their assets and ensure peace of mind.

Crime Trend Analysis in Chichester

The Chichester Built-Up Area has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a minimal 1.7% increase in total crimes year-over-year. A review of the monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents shows some variability. The lowest crime rate was recorded in December 2024 at 9.1 per 1,000, potentially reflecting seasonal patterns. Conversely, June 2025 saw the highest rate at 14.1 per 1,000, suggesting a mid-year peak in criminal activity. Despite these monthly fluctuations, the overall trend indicates a relatively consistent level of crime. Residents should remain aware of these patterns to inform personal safety precautions and property security strategies, particularly during periods that have historically shown higher rates.

Time Patterns of Crime in Chichester

Crime in Chichester Built-Up Area exhibits distinct temporal patterns throughout the day. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are characterised by a significant proportion of theft (44%) and other crimes (38%), with some burglary (8%) and vehicle crime (10%) also occurring. As the day progresses into the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft remains high at 45%, with burglary slightly increasing to 13%, and other crimes at 39%, while vehicle crime reduces. The evening period (6pm-12am) sees a notable shift, with other crimes dominating at 59%, while theft drops to 20%. Vehicle crime and burglary maintain a presence. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime peaks at 25%, alongside 16% burglary and 48% other crimes, indicating a focus on unattended properties. These patterns suggest that different types of criminal activity are more prevalent at specific times, which can inform targeted prevention efforts.

Crime Comparisons with Nearby Areas

To provide regional context, it is useful to compare Chichester Built-Up Area's crime statistics with those of neighbouring settlements such as Westhampnett, Shopwyke, Fishbourne (Chichester), and North Mundham. With an overall crime rate of 144.8 per 1,000 residents and a safety score of 69/100, Chichester BUA's figures provide a benchmark for understanding safety within these closely connected areas. Urban centres often exhibit different crime profiles compared to more rural or suburban neighbours. This comparison helps residents and those considering the area to assess the relative safety and crime challenges across the local region.

Protecting Your Property in Chichester

With a property crime rate of 53.1 per 1,000 residents in Chichester Built-Up Area, which is higher than the UK average, effective home security is paramount. Relying solely on traditional CCTV cameras often means you only get footage of a burglary after the event. For true peace of mind, consider adopting proactive crime prevention strategies.

Advanced AI-powered home security operating systems like scOS offer a significant advantage by detecting threats at your property's boundary, before a break-in can occur. Unlike reactive systems, scOS uses multi-camera intelligence to monitor all angles simultaneously, learning your daily routines to distinguish between familiar activity and genuine intrusions. Features such as autonomous responses, which include activating lights and engaging speakers, are designed to deter potential criminals, destroying their element of surprise within the crucial 60-second window where most burglars make their decision. Opting for professional-grade, proactive security can significantly enhance the protection of your home and valuables.