St Bees Crime Rate

St Bees's crime profile reveals a sharp rise in 'other crime' at +100% YoY, despite its overall safety. With a crime rate of 34.3 per 1,000—62% below the UK average—the area remains very safe. Possession of weapons is 37% above the UK average, highlighting an unusual anomaly. These trends, combined with a 90/100 safety score, present a complex picture of low overall crime but specific localized concerns.

St Bees is a small built-up area in the Copeland district, known for its coastal location and historic character. As a rural commuter hub with limited nightlife, its crime profile reflects low overall activity. The area's sparse population and low economic density likely contribute to its very low crime rates, though the 37% elevation in possession of weapons suggests localized factors such as isolated incidents or unreported events. Proximity to tourist routes may also influence occasional thefts.

The most surprising finding is the 37% elevation in possession of weapons (1.2 vs 0.9 per 1,000) despite St Bees's overall safety. This anomaly may relate to unreported incidents in isolated areas, though no specific data links it to local demographics. Other crime has surged by 100% YoY, likely reflecting underreported or reclassified incidents. Property crime remains 77% below the UK average, with vehicle crime at 87% below due to limited commuter parking. Theft peaks during daytime, possibly linked to retail activity, while other crimes rise at night, suggesting targeted incidents.

Crime in St Bees has decreased by 9.7% YoY, with most categories falling sharply—burglary (-66.7%), criminal damage (-50%), and possession of weapons (-33.3%). However, 'other crime' has surged by 100% YoY, reflecting a notable anomaly. Monthly trends show a peak in February (6.1 per 1,000/month), likely linked to seasonal factors like increased foot traffic during holidays. The overall decline suggests effective local policing, though the sharp rise in 'other crime' requires further investigation.

How To Keep Safe in St Bees

St Bees's low overall crime rate means most residents face minimal risk, but targeted measures are advised. For vehicle security, park in well-lit areas during night hours (when 31% of vehicle crimes occur). For property protection, consider AI-driven monitoring systems that detect unusual activity patterns. Given the 37% elevation in possession of weapons, avoid leaving valuables unattended during evening hours (when 46% of 'other' crimes occur). Community engagement through Neighbourhood Watch can further reinforce local safety.

Crime in St Bees follows distinct patterns: theft dominates afternoons (81% of incidents between 12-6pm), likely tied to retail activity. Evening hours see a shift to other crimes (46% of incidents between 6-12am), possibly linked to isolated incidents. Vehicle crime peaks at night (31% of incidents between 12am-6am), possibly due to limited parking security. The absence of burglaries or violence during all periods reflects the area's low population density and limited commercial activity.

St Bees's crime rate (34.3 per 1,000) is 14% higher than Moor Row (30.1) but 210% lower than Egremont (106.3). This contrast likely reflects differences in population density and economic activity, with Egremont's higher rate potentially linked to greater commercial activity and transient populations.

For St Bees residents, the 37% elevation in possession of weapons (1.2 vs 0.9 per 1,000) underscores the need for targeted security. AI-powered systems like scOS can detect unusual activity patterns at property perimeters, distinguishing between authorized access and potential threats. With its continuous monitoring of all cameras, scOS can trigger deterrent measures—such as automated lighting—before an incident escalates. Given St Bees's low overall crime rate, such systems offer proportionate protection against rare but elevated risks.