Ferndown Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Ferndown’s crime rate in February 2026 stood at 3.3 per 1,000 residents, 48.4% below the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000. This figure, while historically low for a built-up area in rural Dorset, reflects a combination of seasonal and local factors. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime profile, accounting for 36% of all incidents, a share that remains 48% below the UK average. Anti-social behaviour followed closely at 24%, with shoplifting and other thefts contributing 12% and 10% respectively. The winter months, typically marked by reduced outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull, may have influenced these patterns, though the absence of major spikes in property crime suggests that Ferndown’s low-density, rural character continues to act as a deterrent. The area’s overall safety remains a notable feature, with violent crime rates significantly lower than national benchmarks. However, the sharp rise in shoplifting and burglary underscores the need for vigilance in high-traffic retail zones and residential areas. These trends, while not indicative of a broader crisis, highlight the importance of localized awareness and community engagement in maintaining Ferndown’s relatively secure environment.

February 2026 saw a stark rise in shoplifting, surging from 1 to 6 incidents—a 500% increase—despite remaining 31% below the UK average. Burglary also doubled from 1 to 2 incidents, while public order offences emerged entirely, marking a 100% increase from zero. These spikes contrast with the area’s overall 48.4% deficit to the UK average, highlighting localized vulnerabilities. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 36% of all crimes, a share that remains 48% below the UK rate. The absence of significant spikes in property crimes, such as burglary or vehicle crime, suggests that the area’s low-density, rural character may still deter certain types of crime. Residents should remain vigilant in retail areas, where shoplifting has surged, and in residential zones, where burglary has doubled. These changes, though modest in absolute terms, indicate a need for targeted awareness.

Ferndown's crime rate in February 2026 rose to 3.3 per 1,000 residents, marking a 35.3% increase from the previous month's 2.4 per 1,000. This upward trend, though still significantly below the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000, signals a shift in local patterns. On a daily basis, 2 crimes were reported over 28 days, reflecting a local rhythm of activity that may align with seasonal transitions. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 307 residents, a figure that underscores the relatively low exposure compared to larger urban areas. With a population of 15,332, this monthly exposure translates to a manageable frequency for most residents, though the increase in specific crime types warrants attention. The shift from the previous month’s rate suggests a potential influence from winter-related factors, such as reduced outdoor activity or changes in community engagement during the pre-spring lull.