Wisbech Crime Rate May 2023 | Monthly Statistics

The crime profile in Wisbech during May 2023 reveals a combination of violent and property crimes, with the former significantly outpacing the latter. At 12.4 per 1,000 residents, the area's overall crime rate exceeds the UK average by 55%, a figure that has persisted despite seasonal fluctuations. This elevated rate is driven primarily by violence and sexual offences (92 incidents, 29.2% of total), anti-social behaviour (51 incidents, 16.2% of total), and shoplifting (38 incidents, 12.1% of total). The dominance of violent crime over property crime—despite a 27.8% decrease in burglary—suggests a shift in criminal activity patterns, possibly influenced by the extended daylight hours and increased socialising typical of May. The seasonal context of longer evenings and bank holidays may have contributed to higher rates of anti-social behaviour and public order offences, which rose 82% above the UK average. Shoplifting incidents, which account for 12.1% of total crimes, are 206% above the national average, a figure that may indicate vulnerabilities in retail environments or targeted criminal activity in high-traffic areas. While property crimes remain a concern, their share of the total (34.6%) is lower than the 50.8% attributed to violent crime, a trend that could reflect broader socioeconomic factors or changes in policing priorities. The comparison with the UK average underscores the need for tailored strategies to address the specific challenges facing Wisbech, particularly in managing violent crime and anti-social behaviour, which together account for over 45% of all reported incidents.

May 2023 saw a sharp rise in 'other crime' reports, jumping from zero to seven incidents—a 100% increase—suggesting emerging patterns that warrant closer attention. Bicycle theft also doubled, with eight reported cases, possibly linked to increased outdoor activity during longer evenings. Conversely, burglary fell by 27.8% compared to April, though it remains 61% above the UK average. The balance between property and violent crime shifted significantly, with violent crimes accounting for 29.2% of all incidents—higher than property crimes (34.6% of total). This suggests a growing concern for public safety, particularly in areas where anti-social behaviour (16.2% of total crimes) and violence (29.2% of total) dominate. Shoplifting, at 12.1% of all crimes, remains 206% above the UK average, a figure that may partly explain increased police presence in retail zones. Residents should note that vehicle crime fell 33% below the UK average, a rare positive deviation that could reflect local initiatives or seasonal factors.

Wisbech's crime rate in May 2023 rose to 12.4 per 1,000 residents, a 7.8% increase from the previous month's 11.5 per 1,000. This places the built-up area within Fenland 55% above the UK average, a figure that has remained consistently elevated in recent months. On a daily basis, 10 crimes were reported each day in May, translating to roughly one reported crime for every 80 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate highlights the frequency of incidents in a relatively small population, with 25,334 residents. The shift in crime types from April to May shows a notable reallocation of focus, with anti-social behaviour and violence dominating over property crimes. This pattern contrasts with the previous month, where burglary accounted for a larger share of total crimes. The population-scaled perspective underscores the need for targeted interventions, as the rate of violent crime—3.6 per 1,000—exceeds the UK average by 29%, suggesting a persistent challenge in managing public safety in the area.