Caernarfon Crime Rate

Caernarfon's crime rate of 157.0 per 1,000 residents is 72% above the UK average, highlighting a significant disparity. While overall crime has decreased by 9.2% YoY, shoplifting has surged by 59.1%, and vehicle crime has risen sharply by 84.6%. This mix of trends reflects both local challenges and potential opportunities for targeted interventions.

Caernarfon is a historic built-up area in Gwynedd, blending residential communities with tourist attractions and retail hubs. Its proximity to natural landmarks and a mix of older and newer housing stock likely influence crime patterns. Socioeconomic factors such as seasonal tourism and the presence of local businesses may contribute to fluctuations in anti-social behaviour and shoplifting rates.

The most surprising finding is that shoplifting in Caernarfon is 173% above the UK average, far exceeding the rate of other areas. This could be attributed to the area's retail activity, possibly exacerbated by transient populations drawn to local attractions. Violence and sexual offences, though declining by 18% YoY, remain 71% above the UK average, likely linked to social interactions in public spaces. Anti-social behaviour, also 107% above average, may reflect challenges in managing community cohesion in a mixed-use area. Notably, vehicle crime has risen sharply by 84.6% YoY despite being 50% below the UK average, which could indicate increased parking density or targeted theft in specific zones.

Crime in Caernarfon has decreased by 9.2% year-on-year, with notable reductions in anti-social behaviour (-20%), public order (-36%), and burglary (-30.8%). However, vehicle crime has surged by 84.6% YoY, despite remaining 50% below the UK average. The monthly trend shows a peak in March (15.4 per 1,000) and a trough in October (9.3 per 1,000), likely influenced by seasonal factors such as longer evenings and tourism patterns. The rise in vehicle crime may reflect increased parking density or targeted theft in specific zones.

How To Keep Safe in Caernarfon

To address the area's elevated shoplifting rates, avoid leaving bags unattended in public spaces and use anti-theft bags. For the sharp rise in vehicle crime, park in well-lit, monitored areas and use scOS's DVLA verification if available. During evenings, when anti-social behaviour peaks, avoid isolated paths and keep valuables secure. Community engagement, such as Neighbourhood Watch, can also help deter crime through collective vigilance.

Crime in Caernarfon shows distinct patterns by time of day. Theft peaks in the afternoon (43%), possibly tied to retail activity and foot traffic. Vehicle crime rises at night (18%), likely due to parked vehicles in poorly lit areas. Other crimes, such as burglary and public order issues, cluster in the evening and night, aligning with reduced visibility and increased social activity. The absence of violence during all periods suggests a lower prevalence of late-night confrontations compared to urban centres.

Compared to nearby areas, Caernarfon has a 787% higher crime rate than Bontnewydd and a 332% higher rate than Bethel. Bontnewydd's lower rate may reflect a smaller population or less commercial activity, while Bethel's higher rate could indicate different socioeconomic factors. These disparities suggest that local context, such as population density and economic conditions, significantly influences crime profiles.

For Caernarfon residents, scOS's proactive boundary detection can help deter burglars by identifying threats at property perimeters. Its DVLA vehicle registration verification feature is particularly relevant given the 84.6% YoY rise in vehicle crime, flagging suspicious vehicles before they enter premises. Multi-camera monitoring addresses the high rate of shoplifting by covering retail areas comprehensively, reducing blind spots where theft often occurs.