Bridport Crime Rate October 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Bridport's crime rate in October 2023 stood at 9.2 per 1,000 residents, placing it 15% above the UK average of 8.0. This figure reflects a combination of local dynamics, including seasonal factors and the area’s character as a small coastal town with a mix of residential and commercial zones. The most prevalent crime types were anti-social behaviour (36.3% of total crimes), violence and sexual offences (29.7%), and criminal damage and arson (12.1%). Anti-social behaviour, in particular, was 158% above the UK average, suggesting a persistent challenge in managing public order. This could be linked to the area’s seasonal rhythm, as October brings darker evenings and events like Halloween, which may contribute to increased alcohol-fuelled incidents. Conversely, the rate of violent crime aligned with the UK average, indicating a balance between local patterns and national trends. The seasonal context of October—shorter days, colder weather, and the transition from autumn to winter—may also influence crime patterns, with anti-social behaviour peaking during evenings when outdoor activity is limited. While the overall rate remains elevated, the data highlights specific areas for targeted intervention, such as addressing anti-social behaviour through community engagement and environmental measures.

October 2023 saw significant decreases in burglary, other theft, and drug-related crimes, with burglary falling by 80% compared to the previous month. This decline may partly explain the overall crime rate’s relative stability despite an increase in anti-social behaviour. The drop in burglary could reflect improved security measures or seasonal factors, as colder weather may deter outdoor crimes. Conversely, criminal damage and arson rose by 120%, marking a stark shift in the crime mix. This category, which includes vandalism and arson, was 75% above the UK average, linked to local property characteristics or transient populations. Bicycle theft also surged by 100%, a figure that may be influenced by increased cycling during milder autumn days. Meanwhile, other theft fell by 60%, due to reduced retail activity in October compared to peak shopping months. For residents, the 80% reduction in burglary is a clear indicator of progress in crime prevention efforts. However, the 158% increase in anti-social behaviour compared to the UK average remains a critical concern, suggesting a need for targeted strategies to address public order issues in communal spaces.

Bridport’s crime rate in October 2023 (9.2 per 1,000) marked an 8.4% increase from the previous month’s rate of 8.5 per 1,000, though it remains 15% above the UK average. Over the course of the month, 91 crimes were reported, equating to roughly 3 crimes per day—a figure that, while locally significant, must be contextualised within Bridport’s population of 9,913. This translates to one reported crime for every 109 residents over the month, a measure that underscores the frequency of incidents in a relatively small community. When compared to the previous month, the rise in crime rate may reflect seasonal shifts, such as the transition to darker evenings and the approach of Halloween, which could influence both criminal activity and policing priorities. The daily crime count of 3 per day is higher than the UK average of approximately 2.4 per day (based on UK population and crime data), though direct comparisons are limited by the lack of national daily figures. Bridport’s population size means that even small absolute changes in crime numbers can have a disproportionate impact on the rate, highlighting the need for tailored local strategies. The monthly exposure of 1-in-109 residents illustrates the tangible impact of crime on daily life, particularly in a close-knit community where incidents are more visible and more disruptive.