Rural Chichester Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Rural Chichester, covering the period from January 2025 to December 2025, reveal a crime rate of 60.2 per 1,000 residents annually. This figure is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a generally safer environment compared to the national picture, with a safety score of 86/100. However, the data also reveals a concerning upward trend, with crime increasing by 12.4% year-on-year. The most prevalent types of crime include violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and vehicle crime. Understanding these trends and the specific crime breakdown is crucial for residents and local authorities to implement effective preventative measures and enhance community safety. Monthly data shows fluctuations, with a notable decrease in reported crime towards the end of the data period.

The crime landscape of Rural Chichester is shaped by its rural setting and relatively small population of 16,727. The area's dispersed nature, coupled with a degree of isolation in some locations, can contribute to opportunities for certain types of crime. While the community benefits from a strong sense of local identity and neighbourly spirit, the area’s characteristics can also present unique challenges for law enforcement. Economic activity, primarily focused on agriculture and tourism, influences the types of crimes experienced, with potential impacts on theft and related offences. Demographic factors, including an aging population in some areas, can also play a role in crime patterns. Addressing these complex factors requires a tailored approach to crime prevention and community engagement.

The increase in crime by 12.4% year-on-year is a concerning trend for Rural Chichester. Monthly data reveals fluctuations, with a noticeable peak in April 2025 (5.9 per 1,000/month) and a subsequent decline towards the end of the year. While December 2025 saw a relatively low rate (2.9 per 1,000/month), the overall upward trajectory warrants attention. Factors contributing to this trend may include seasonal changes, economic conditions, and changes in law enforcement strategies. Continued monitoring and targeted interventions are essential to address this rising crime rate.

How To Keep Safe in Rural Chichester

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone. Vehicle crime is also a significant concern; always lock your vehicle and remove valuables. Consider joining or supporting local neighbourhood watch schemes to foster community vigilance and information sharing. Secure your property with robust locks and consider installing motion-activated lighting. Finally, report any suspicious activity to the police promptly – even seemingly minor incidents can contribute to a safer environment.

Crimes in Rural Chichester exhibit varied patterns throughout the day. Burglary incidents show a slight peak in the afternoon (12pm - 6pm), while vehicle crime is notably higher during the night (12am - 6am). The evening period (6pm - 12am) sees a concentration of thefts and a small proportion of burglaries, potentially linked to increased activity in the area. It’s important to note that these are general trends, and individual circumstances can vary significantly.

Compared to neighbouring areas within Chichester, Rural Chichester exhibits a lower overall crime rate. While some surrounding villages experience higher rates of public order offences, Rural Chichester generally demonstrates a more favourable safety profile. However, it is important to acknowledge that crime patterns can vary significantly within even small geographic areas, and individual experiences may differ.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. However, the increasing sophistication of crime necessitates a more proactive approach. scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, represents a paradigm shift in property protection. By utilising multi-camera intelligence and DVLA vehicle verification, scOS detects threats at your property boundary, preventing break-ins before they happen. Its pattern learning capability recognises your family and deliveries, filtering out routine activity and alerting you only to genuine threats. The visible presence of scOS acts as a powerful deterrent, making that critical 60-second decision for potential burglars – often leading them to move on. Considering the rising crime trend in Rural Chichester, investing in professional-grade security like scOS offers a level of protection beyond that of standard DIY systems.