Chilton (County Durham) Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Chilton (County Durham), covering the period from January 2025 to December 2025, reveal a crime rate of 115.3 per 1,000 residents. This figure is slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a marginally elevated risk of crime compared to the national picture. However, it’s important to consider that Chilton’s safety score stands at 74 out of 100, demonstrating a reasonable level of safety overall. The area has experienced a decrease in crime of -7.1% year-on-year, which represents a positive trend. Understanding the types of crimes prevalent in Chilton and the factors contributing to these figures is key to promoting community safety and wellbeing. This report aims to provide a factual overview of the crime landscape in Chilton.

Chilton (County Durham) experiences a mix of crime types, reflecting its status as a built-up area within a broader rural context. Violence and sexual offences represent the largest proportion of reported crimes, accounting for 36.7% of incidents and totaling 266 occurrences over the period from January to December 2025. This category encompasses a range of offenses, highlighting potential concerns around public safety. Anti-social behaviour follows as the second most prevalent crime, indicating issues with community disruption and public order. Shoplifting also contributes significantly, suggesting challenges related to retail security within the area. Overall property crime, totaling 42.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, is a key consideration, underscoring the need for preventative measures and community vigilance. These figures are influenced by factors such as population density, local economic conditions, and the availability of services.

Crime rates in Chilton have been decreasing steadily since January 2025, culminating in a -7.1% year-on-year reduction. January 2025 recorded a monthly crime rate of 9.2 per 1,000, which peaked in August at 13.0 per 1,000. However, a significant dip was observed in September, dropping to 6.7 per 1,000. While rates fluctuated throughout the year, with spikes in April, June, October and December (reaching 11.5 per 1,000), the overall trend demonstrates a positive downward trajectory. This decrease suggests the effectiveness of ongoing crime prevention initiatives and increased community engagement.

How To Keep Safe in Chilton

Given that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type in Chilton, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when out alone at night. Report any suspicious activity to the police promptly. Shoplifting is also a concern, so be mindful of your belongings when visiting local businesses. Vehicle crime is a factor, so ensure your vehicle is locked and valuables are out of sight. Finally, consider joining or supporting local community watch schemes, as collective vigilance can significantly improve neighbourhood safety. Remember to keep your doors and windows locked, even when you're at home.

Crime in Chilton tends to fluctuate throughout the day. Burglary incidents are slightly more common in the afternoon, while vehicle crime exhibits a higher prevalence overnight between 12am and 6am. Theft is frequently observed during the afternoon when businesses are operating. Violence and sexual offences show a tendency to increase during the evening hours, particularly on weekends. Overall, a significant portion of crime occurs during the evening and night, emphasizing the importance of heightened vigilance and security measures during these periods.

Compared to nearby areas, Chilton's crime rate is within a similar range. Ferryhill, with a rate of 140.8 per 1,000, experiences a higher crime rate. Kirk Merrington, with a rate of 0.0 per 1,000, demonstrates a significantly safer environment. Coundon and Leeholme (122.5 per 1,000) and Newton Aycliffe (121.0 per 1,000) also have higher crime rates than Chilton, highlighting the varying levels of safety across County Durham.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actually preventing threats at your property line is another. scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, offers a proactive approach. Unlike conventional cameras that simply record, scOS uses AI to detect potential threats at the property boundary, such as unfamiliar vehicles or individuals. The DVLA vehicle verification feature instantly flags suspicious vehicles with cloned plates, and the pattern learning technology recognises your family and deliveries, reducing false alarms. The visible presence of scOS, with its multi-camera intelligence and autonomous response – activating lights and speakers – creates a significant deterrent. Most burglars decide within that critical 60-second window; the element of surprise provided by scOS often makes them move on.