Lee-on-the-Solent Crime Rate May 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Lee-on-the-Solent's crime profile in May 2023 was dominated by anti-social behaviour and violence, which together accounted for 75.3% of all reported crimes. With a crime rate of 4.4 per 1,000 residents, the area remained 45% below the UK average of 8.0, a disparity that underscores its relatively low crime environment. Anti-social behaviour, the most common category, saw a 290.9% year-on-year increase, likely driven by May's extended evenings and increased outdoor socialising typical of coastal areas. Violence and sexual offences, while remaining 42% below the UK average, constituted 37.2% of total crimes, reflecting the area's focus on public order management. The seasonal context of May, with its bank holidays and longer daylight hours, likely contributed to the surge in anti-social behaviour, as seen in similar coastal communities. This pattern contrasts with the significant declines in property crimes, which were 66-100% below UK averages, suggesting a shift in criminal activity towards public spaces rather than targeted property offences. The area's low burglary and vehicle crime rates, 100% below UK averages, further reinforce its status as a relatively safe built-up area within Fareham.

Anti-social behaviour surged by 290.9% in May, rising from 11 to 43 incidents. This dramatic increase, while alarming, aligns with May's seasonal patterns of extended evenings and increased outdoor socialising. Violence and sexual offences remained 42% below the UK average, a consistent trend that may reflect the area's smaller population and lower density of nightlife venues. The sharp decline in burglary (-83.3%) and criminal damage (-60%) contrasts with the rise in anti-social behaviour, suggesting a shift in criminal activity towards public spaces rather than targeted property crimes. For residents, the 4 daily crimes reported in May provide a clear benchmark for assessing local safety, particularly during peak social hours.

Lee-on-the-Solent's crime rate in May 2023 rose 12.1% from the previous month, moving from 3.9 to 4.4 per 1,000 residents. This shift, while modest, reflects a seasonal pattern common in coastal areas where extended daylight and warmer weather encourage social activity. On average, 4 crimes were reported daily in May, a figure that contextualises the pace of incidents for local residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 229 residents, a metric that highlights the relative safety of the area compared to larger urban centres. This monthly exposure rate is particularly meaningful for families and businesses planning long-term activities, as it provides a tangible sense of risk. The population of 25,870 further scales these figures, ensuring that the statistics remain proportionate to the community's size and structure.