Woodbridge Crime Rate February 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Woodbridge’s February 2024 crime rate of 4.2 per 1,000 residents stood 40.8% below the UK average of 7.1 per 1,000, marking one of the lowest rates in the region. The area’s crime profile was dominated by violence and sexual offences (15 incidents, 37.5% of total crimes), followed by shoplifting (6 incidents, 15%) and public order offences (5 incidents, 12.5%). This pattern aligns with Woodbridge’s character as a largely rural built-up area with a mix of historic residential zones and commercial hubs along the River Orwell. The winter season typically sees reduced outdoor activity, which may contribute to lower property crime rates compared to busier months. However, the breakdown of violent crimes—accounting for nearly half of all incidents—suggests ongoing challenges in addressing local tensions, possibly linked to seasonal factors such as post-holiday social dynamics or limited community engagement opportunities. Shoplifting rates in Woodbridge were 11% above the UK average, a figure that may reflect the area’s retail presence along major transport routes, though the relatively low overall crime rate indicates effective policing or community interventions. The seasonal context of February—a pre-spring lull—may also explain the absence of spikes in vehicle crime or burglary, which are typically influenced by weather and daylight patterns.

February 2024 saw dramatic fluctuations in specific crime categories. Public order offences surged by 400% month-on-month, rising from 1 to 5 incidents—a jump that could reflect heightened tensions during local events or increased enforcement activity. Burglary rates also doubled, with three incidents reported compared to one in January, though this remains well below the UK average for the category. Conversely, other theft crimes fell by two-thirds, dropping from three to one, potentially due to improved security measures or seasonal inactivity. The area’s shoplifting rate (0.6 per 1,000) was 11% above the UK average (0.5 per 1,000), a disparity that may be attributed to Woodbridge’s proximity to major transport links and retail corridors. Meanwhile, possession of weapons offences in February were 186% above the UK average (0.2 vs 0.1 per 1,000), a figure that raises questions about local enforcement priorities or reporting practices. The most striking anomaly, however, was the 400% increase in public order offences, which may indicate unaddressed community tensions or a temporary spike in disruptive behaviour during the month. Residents should note that while the overall crime rate remains low, targeted vigilance in public spaces may be warranted given this sharp rise.

Woodbridge’s crime rate in February 2024 (4.2 per 1,000) marked a 10.9% increase from January’s 3.8 per 1,000, though it still remains significantly below the UK average. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly one crime per day over the 29-day month, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 239 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate is lower than the UK average, which is typically higher in urban centres with denser populations. With a population of 9,559, Woodbridge’s low crime rate suggests a combination of effective policing, community cohesion, and geographic factors such as its rural character and limited high-density housing. The 10.9% increase from January, while statistically significant, is modest in absolute terms (40 total crimes) and may reflect normal seasonal variations rather than a systemic trend. The area’s performance in categories like burglary and criminal damage—both below UK averages—further underscores its distinct profile compared to larger urban areas, where property crime is often more prevalent. Residents should note that while the overall picture remains positive, the 400% rise in public order offences highlights a need for targeted monitoring in specific contexts.