Hersham Crime Rate December 2024 | Monthly Statistics

December 2024 marked a notable shift in Hersham’s crime profile, with the most dramatic change being a 100% increase in burglary. This surge, though limited in absolute numbers, highlights the vulnerability of properties in a built-up area during the festive season, when empty homes and holiday absences may create opportunities for offenders. The overall crime rate of 4.1 per 1,000 residents — 42.3% below the UK average — underscores Hersham’s relatively low risk environment, even as specific categories fluctuated. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category, accounting for 49.1% of all crimes, but at a rate 22% below the UK average. This could be attributed to the area’s demographic profile, with a mix of residential and commercial properties that may limit opportunities for violent crime compared to more densely populated urban centres. Seasonal factors, including darker evenings and reduced foot traffic during holidays, likely contributed to the 70% decline in anti-social behaviour and 42.9% drop in criminal damage and arson. However, the increase in public order offences may reflect the impact of late-night gatherings in Hersham’s retail and hospitality areas, a common pattern in similar built-up locations. The interplay between these trends illustrates the complex relationship between local geography, seasonal rhythms, and crime patterns, with Hersham’s data showing both resilience and vulnerability in specific areas.

December 2024 saw a dramatic 100% rise in burglary, with the category doubling from 2 to 4 incidents. This jump, though modest in absolute terms, represents the most significant monthly increase among all crime types. Violence and sexual offences also rose by 12%, reaching 28 cases — a rate of 2.0 per 1,000, 22% below the UK average. Conversely, anti-social behaviour dropped by 70%, from 10 to 3, marking the largest decrease. This shift may reflect seasonal factors, as Christmas-related community events or holiday absences could have reduced opportunities for such incidents. Public order offences increased by 75%, from 4 to 7, a category that typically aligns with alcohol-related incidents in built-up areas. Criminal damage and arson fell by 42.9%, suggesting a possible reduction in vandalism during the holiday season. Residents may find the 42.3% UK average comparison particularly relevant, as it underscores Hersham’s comparatively low crime profile despite the burglary spike.

Hersham's crime rate in December 2024 fell by 8.1% compared to November, dropping from 4.4 to 4.1 per 1,000 residents. This decline aligns with a broader seasonal trend, as December’s darker evenings and holiday-related absences may have reduced opportunities for certain crimes. On a daily basis, 2 crimes were reported over the 31 days, reflecting a low but consistent presence of criminal activity in the area. When scaled to the local population, the monthly exposure rate of 1-in-246 residents illustrates the relatively low risk faced by Hersham’s population compared to other areas. This figure is particularly striking when considering the built-up nature of the area, which typically correlates with higher crime rates. The reduction in anti-social behaviour and criminal damage and arson may also reflect community-focused efforts during the festive season, though these remain speculative without further data. The population-scaled perspective highlights that, despite the 100% increase in burglary, the overall impact on residents remains proportionally minimal.