Chorley Crime Rate May 2023 | Monthly Statistics

For a population of 120,839, Chorley’s 856 reported crimes in May 2023 translate to 7.1 crimes per 1,000 residents—a rate 11.3% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. This figure reflects a relatively safe local authority district compared to national trends, though specific crime types reveal local pressures. Anti-social behaviour dominated the monthly tally, accounting for 35.4% of all incidents (303 cases) and 88% above the UK average for this category. Violence and sexual offences followed closely, with 283 cases (33.1% of total crimes), slightly below the national rate. The seasonal context of May—longer evenings, bank holidays, and increased outdoor socialising—likely contributes to the prominence of anti-social behaviour, as well as the moderate rise in bicycle theft. These patterns align with the area’s character as a mix of urban and suburban communities, where public spaces are heavily used but may lack sufficient oversight during peak social hours. Meanwhile, the UK average for property crimes (2.8 per 1,000) is higher than Chorley’s rate for burglary (0.2 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (0.2 per 1,000), suggesting that local efforts in securing property and vehicles may be effective. However, the sharp increase in bicycle theft and the persistent gap in anti-social behaviour rates indicate areas for targeted intervention.

May 2023 saw a 200% increase in bicycle theft compared to April, rising from 3 to 9 incidents. This sharp rise may reflect increased cycling activity during longer evenings or seasonal changes in outdoor behaviour. Conversely, criminal damage and arson fell by 29.4%, dropping from 85 to 60 cases—a decline consistent with fewer public holidays or reduced outdoor gatherings in the area. Anti-social behaviour remained a standout concern, with a rate of 2.5 per 1,000 (35.4% of all crimes), 88% above the UK average of 1.3 per 1,000. This discrepancy highlights a local challenge in managing public order, potentially tied to the area’s social dynamics or community engagement. Meanwhile, vehicle crime dropped by 23.1%, from 26 to 20 incidents, linked to reduced car usage during warmer weather or improved security measures in parking areas.

Chorley's crime rate in May 2023 remained stable at 7.1 per 1,000 residents, matching the rate from the previous month. This consistency suggests no significant short-term fluctuations, though seasonal factors may still influence patterns. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly 28 crimes per day, a figure that contextualises the volume of incidents within the local rhythm of activity. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 141 residents, a monthly exposure rate that highlights the frequency of incidents relative to the population. With Chorley's population at 120,839, the 856 total crimes equate to a manageable scale for a local authority district, though targeted efforts may still be needed in high-impact categories like anti-social behaviour. The comparison to the UK average further illustrates that Chorley's overall rate is 11.3% below the national figure, a gap that persists despite the area’s specific challenges in certain crime types.