Caernarfon Crime Rate August 2024 | Monthly Statistics

In August 2024, Caernarfon's built-up area recorded 157 crimes, equating to a crime rate of 15.5 per 1,000 residents—89% above the UK average of 8.2 per 1,000. This figure translates to 157 crimes for a population of 10,116, making it one of the most crime-affected areas in Wales. The breakdown shows that violence and sexual offences (62 cases) accounted for 39.5% of all crimes, far exceeding the UK average of 12.7%. Anti-social behaviour (34 cases) and shoplifting (19 cases) followed, with both significantly above UK rates. These patterns reflect a combination of local factors, including Caernarfon's role as a tourist destination and its proximity to the Llyn Peninsula, which may contribute to seasonal fluctuations in crime. The sharp increase in shoplifting during August aligns with the peak holiday season, when retail areas may attract transient populations and unoccupied homes. Conversely, the relatively low rate of burglary (4 cases) suggests that local policing efforts or the town's small-scale nature may mitigate property crimes. The dominance of violent and anti-social offences over property crimes indicates a different crime profile compared to larger urban centres, where property crimes often dominate. This pattern may also be influenced by Caernarfon's demographic composition, with a mix of permanent residents and temporary visitors during the summer months. The UK comparison underscores the need for targeted interventions, particularly in addressing the high incidence of violence and anti-social behaviour, which are 127% and 136% above the UK average respectively. Seasonal factors, such as the influx of tourists and the associated changes in local routines, likely play a role in shaping these trends.

August 2024 saw an 111.1% increase in shoplifting cases, rising from 9 to 19 incidents. This surge aligns with August being a peak holiday month, when tourism and empty homes may increase burglary risk. Anti-social behaviour also rose by 36%, from 25 to 34 cases, a trend that could reflect heightened social activity during the summer. Other theft cases dropped by 50%, from 6 to 3, due to targeted policing efforts or seasonal shifts in criminal activity. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences accounted for 39.5% of all crimes, significantly above the UK average of 12.7%. This imbalance between violent and property crimes suggests a distinct local pattern, with public order and anti-social behaviour contributing to 32.5% of incidents. The sharp contrast with the UK average for shoplifting—168% above—highlights a specific challenge for Caernarfon's retailers and local authorities.

Caernarfon's crime rate in August 2024 rose to 15.5 per 1,000 residents, marking a 13.8% increase from July's 13.6 per 1,000. This translates to roughly 5 crimes reported each day in the built-up area, a figure that may feel more tangible for residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 64 residents, a monthly aggregate that highlights the frequency of incidents in a community of 10,116 people. While daily crime counts offer a snapshot, the monthly exposure metric provides context for how often residents may encounter crime in their daily lives. This rate remains significantly higher than the UK average, but the comparison to the previous month underscores a recent upward trend. The population-scaled perspective reveals that the 157 reported crimes represent a substantial proportion of the local population, raising questions about underlying factors influencing this increase.