Hemel Hempstead Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Hemel Hempstead’s January 2026 crime rate of 7.6 per 1,000 residents placed it 11.8% above the UK average, a figure that reflects the area’s built-up character and proximity to transport networks. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 34.4% of all recorded crimes, with 255 incidents—2.6 per 1,000 residents, 4% above the UK average. This category’s prevalence may be influenced by Hemel Hempstead’s status as a commuter town, where transient populations and late-night transport links could contribute to higher rates of violent incidents. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, making up 19.6% of all crimes, with a rate of 1.5 per 1,000 residents—61% above the UK average. This stark deviation from the national norm suggests underlying social or environmental factors, such as the impact of post-holiday periods or the area’s density of retail and commercial spaces. Other theft, at 0.7 per 1,000 residents, was 52% above the UK average, linked to the presence of high-footfall areas or targeted retail environments. Seasonal context plays a role in these figures: January, with its shorter days and reduced retail activity compared to festive months, may see a shift in criminal patterns, with property crimes outpacing violent offences. However, the overall rate remains elevated, indicating a need for targeted interventions that address both localised and national crime trends.

January 2026 saw a 51.1% increase in shoplifting compared to December 2025, with 68 incidents recorded—surpassing the UK average by 23%. This rise may be linked to post-holiday retail activity or changes in foot traffic patterns. Anti-social behaviour remained the second most common crime category, contributing 19.6% of all reported incidents, a rate 61% above the UK average. This discrepancy could reflect localised social dynamics or the influence of Hemel Hempstead’s urban environment. Bicycle theft surged by 100% month-on-month, with four incidents recorded—though this rate remains 100% below the UK average. Conversely, robbery fell by 83.3%, from six to one incident, a sharp decline that may indicate effective policing or changes in criminal opportunity.

Hemel Hempstead's January 2026 crime rate of 7.6 per 1,000 residents marked a 3.3% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 7.9 per 1,000. This monthly decline suggests a short-term trend of reduced criminal activity. above the UK average. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 24 crimes per day, a figure that reflects the built-up nature of Hemel Hempstead and its proximity to major transport hubs. Over the course of January, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 131 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the density of the population within the built-up area. While this figure is consistent with the area’s demographic profile, it also highlights the need for ongoing localised policing strategies to address persistent crime patterns.