Dartford Crime Rate April 2025 | Monthly Statistics

In April 2025, Dartford's crime rate of 9.6 per 1,000 residents placed it 24.7% above the UK average of 7.7. For every 104 residents, one crime was reported over the course of the month. This rate translates to a tangible daily reality: 40 crimes occurred in Dartford each day, with 31.7% of all incidents classified as violence and sexual offences. The seasonal shift of spring, marked by Easter and increased outdoor activity, may partly explain the elevated levels of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. Retail areas, which form a significant part of Dartford's local economy, likely contribute to the 19.8% share of shoplifting cases, a figure 188% above the UK average. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences, at 3.1 per 1,000, remain a pressing concern, 19% higher than the national average. These patterns suggest a combination of factors, including the town's commuter belt dynamics and seasonal foot traffic, which may amplify opportunities for crime in public spaces. direct links to specific events, but the timing aligns with periods of heightened activity in local markets and high streets.

April 2025 saw a 200% increase in bicycle theft, rising from 3 to 9 cases. This sharp rise may reflect the start of warmer weather and increased cycling activity, particularly among students and commuters. Shoplifting also surged by 33.7%, with 238 incidents reported, far exceeding the UK average of 0.7 per 1,000. The local retail sector, which includes major shopping centres, likely plays a role in this trend. Conversely, public order offences fell by 22%, from 50 to 39 cases, possibly due to improved policing during Easter or reduced alcohol-related incidents. Robbery increased by 40%, from 5 to 7 cases, though this remains below the UK average. Possession of weapons dropped by 66.7%, from 15 to 5 cases, a decline that may indicate targeted interventions or seasonal factors. The stark contrast between Dartford's shoplifting rate and the UK average highlights the need for tailored strategies in high-footfall areas, where the 188% disparity underscores a significant local challenge.

Dartford's crime rate in April 2025 (9.6 per 1,000) was marginally lower than March's 9.7 per 1,000, reflecting a stable trend over the two months. This stability contrasts with the UK-wide seasonal fluctuations often seen in spring, where crime rates typically rise due to increased outdoor activity. Locally, the daily crime count of 40 incidents per day offers a concrete measure of risk, though this figure should be contextualised within the town's population of 125,011. Over the course of April, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 104 residents, a ratio that may feel more tangible to residents than abstract statistics. While the overall rate exceeds the UK average, the breakdown reveals stark disparities: shoplifting and violence are higher, while theft from the person is 38% below the UK average. This suggests that Dartford's crime profile is shaped by its unique characteristics, such as its proximity to London and the presence of retail hubs, which may drive specific types of crime. The 1-in-104 resident figure, though seemingly high, does not equate to a daily risk for all individuals, as crime distribution is uneven across neighbourhoods and demographics.