Dartford Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Dartford

Dartford records an overall crime rate of 109.5 per 1,000 people per year, which is higher than the UK average of 93.1 per 1,000. The area holds a safety score of 75 out of 100, which is slightly below the national average of 78. Recent data indicates a stable trend in crime, with a minor increase of 2.2% year-over-year. This overview provides context for a more detailed examination of specific crime types and their patterns within Dartford.

About Dartford

Dartford, a Local Authority District, is a significant urban and commercial hub in Kent, characterised by its strong transport links, including the Dartford Crossing, and proximity to London. The area features a mix of residential zones, retail centres, and industrial estates. Its role as a transport corridor and a centre for commerce contributes to a dynamic, often transient, population flow. These factors, alongside varied demographics and economic activities, can influence the local crime statistics. The higher crime rate compared to the UK average suggests that the urban environment and associated activities play a role in shaping its safety profile.

Crime Breakdown in Dartford

An analysis of crime types in Dartford shows that Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent category, making up 33.4% of all reported crimes with 4576 incidents (36.6 per 1,000 residents). Shoplifting follows as the second most common at 16.6% (2273 incidents, 18.2 per 1,000), with Anti-social behaviour being the third, accounting for 13.3% (1821 incidents, 14.6 per 1,000).

Overall property crime, encompassing burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, stands at 46.0 per 1,000 people per year. This is higher than the UK average of 32.9 per 1,000. For residents and homeowners, understanding these figures is important. Notably, vehicle crime is at 6.9 per 1,000 and burglary at 2.8 per 1,000, suggesting these areas require attention for property protection.

Crime Trends in Dartford

Dartford has experienced a stable crime trend over the last year, with a slight increase of 2.2% year-over-year. Examining the monthly data reveals fluctuations throughout the period. Crime rates per 1,000 residents were 8.8 in November 2024, rising to 9.2 in December before a dip in January and February 2025. A peak was observed in July at 10.7, followed by a decline, with October 2025 recording 8.9. This overall stability, despite monthly variations, indicates a consistent crime environment for residents.

Crime in Nearby Areas

When assessing crime in Dartford, it is useful to consider its position relative to neighbouring areas. While specific comparative crime rates for Bexley, Thurrock, Gravesham, Greenwich, Havering, and Barking and Dagenham are not available for direct comparison in the provided data, Dartford's overall crime rate of 109.5 per 1,000 people per year provides a benchmark for regional safety. Dartford's rate is higher than the UK average, indicating a more prevalent crime environment compared to national trends. This context helps residents and those considering moving to the area understand its local safety profile.

Proactive Home Security

Dartford's property crime rate of 46.0 per 1,000 people per year, which is notably higher than the UK average, underscores the critical need for effective home security. Traditional security cameras often only record events, providing footage of a burglary after it has occurred, rather than actively preventing it. For enhanced protection, consider adopting advanced AI-powered systems like scOS.

scOS offers proactive defence by identifying threats at the property perimeter, stopping incidents before they escalate. Unlike reactive systems, scOS utilises multi-camera intelligence and sophisticated pattern learning to differentiate between expected activity and genuine threats, ensuring precise alerts. Its immediate, autonomous responses, such as activating lights and audio warnings, are designed to deter intruders within seconds. This preventative approach is essential for safeguarding your home and valuables in Dartford, moving beyond mere recording to active crime prevention.

How To Keep Safe in Dartford

Given that Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type in Dartford, it is vital for residents to prioritise personal safety. To mitigate risks, consider these broader regional tips:

• Stay vigilant: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in public spaces or when alone.
• Plan your routes: Opt for well-lit, busy streets and inform someone of your whereabouts, particularly during evening hours.
• Travel in groups: Where possible, avoid walking alone at night and utilise licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
• Secure your property: Ensure your home has robust locks and consider external lighting to deter potential offenders.
• Report incidents: If you experience or witness violence, report it to the authorities promptly.