Littlestone-on-Sea Crime Rate September 2023 | Monthly Statistics

September 2023 marked an unexpected shift in Littlestone-on-Sea's crime profile, with violent crimes accounting for 45.8% of all reported incidents—despite remaining 31% below the UK average of 2.7 per 1,000. This contrasts with a broader trend of lower-than-average crime rates overall, with the area's total rate of 4.1 per 1,000 residents 48.8% below the national average of 8.0. The seasonal context of September, with back-to-school transitions and university freshers arriving, likely contributed to this pattern. While property crimes remained low (5 total), the surge in violent offences may reflect increased social activity in the built-up coastal area. Public order offences and anti-social behaviour—both typically higher in urban centres—were 52% and 78% below UK averages, respectively, suggesting effective local policing or community engagement. The category of 'other crime', however, defied expectations by being 257% above the UK average, highlighting the need for clearer definitions in crime reporting. These figures underscore the combination of local demographics and crime trends, with Littlestone-on-Sea's unique position as a coastal built-up area within Folkestone and Hythe shaping its crime profile differently from larger urban centres.

September 2023 saw sharp increases in criminal damage and arson (+100%), other crime (+100%), and bicycle theft (+100%) compared to August. These spikes contrast with a 50% drop in other theft and a 33% decline in anti-social behaviour. The area's violent crime rate of 1.9 per 1,000 residents is 31% below the UK average of 2.7 per 1,000, despite the 45.8% share of total crimes. Meanwhile, 'other crime'—a category not typically highlighted—surpassed the UK average by 257%, raising questions about its definition and local context. Residents may find the 100% rise in bicycle theft particularly relevant, possibly linked to university freshers arriving in the area. The shift in crime mix from property to violent offences suggests changing dynamics in the built-up coastal area.

Littlestone-on-Sea's crime rate in September 2023 rose 26.6% from 3.3 to 4.1 per 1,000 residents compared to August. This increase, though notable, remains 48.8% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. Locally, this translates to roughly one reported crime per day over the month, with 1 in 242 residents experiencing a crime. While the rate has climbed, the area still maintains a significantly lower crime profile than the national average. The daily crime count, though small, suggests a steady presence of crime that residents may encounter during their daily routines. This context is particularly relevant for a coastal built-up area with a population of 5,802, where community cohesion and local policing may contribute to the lower-than-average rates despite the month-on-month increase.