Gwynedd Crime Rate May 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Gwynedd’s crime rate in May 2024 stood at 7.8 per 1,000 residents, placing it 7.1% below the UK average of 8.4. This figure masks a nuanced picture, with violence and sexual offences dominating the crime profile at 393 incidents (41.8% of total), a rate of 3.3 per 1,000—16% above the UK average. This anomaly may be linked to Gwynedd’s seasonal patterns, where longer evenings and bank holidays in May could have amplified social interactions and associated risks. Anti-social behaviour followed closely at 231 incidents (1.9 per 1,000), 31% above the UK average, a trend that could reflect the area’s mix of rural and coastal communities, where social norms and community engagement may vary. In contrast, property crimes remained well below the national average: criminal damage and arson (0.6 per 1,000) and shoplifting (0.3 per 1,000) were 3% and 53% below UK rates, respectively. These lower figures may be attributed to Gwynedd’s generally lower population density and reduced commercial activity compared to urban centres. The data also reveals a stark disparity in crime categories: while violent crime was significantly higher than average, property-related offences were lower, suggesting a distinct crime profile shaped by local demographics and geography. This contrast is likely influenced by Gwynedd’s status as a largely rural and coastal area, where community dynamics and economic factors differ from densely populated regions. The seasonal context of May—characterised by warmer weather and extended daylight—may have contributed to the rise in public order offences and violence. Overall, the month’s crime picture illustrates a combination of local conditions and broader national trends, with implications for targeted policing and community initiatives.

May 2024 saw a sharp 62.5% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 8 to 13 incidents. This surge aligns with the month’s bank holidays and extended daylight hours, which may have encouraged more vehicle-related activity. Public order offences also spiked by 56.8%, climbing to 69 from 44, a trend consistent with the season’s increased outdoor socialising. Meanwhile, burglary decreased by 22.7% (22 to 17), potentially reflecting improved security measures or seasonal inactivity in residential areas. Anti-social behaviour remained 31% above the UK average at 1.9 per 1,000, a figure that may be influenced by Gwynedd’s mix of rural and coastal communities, where community cohesion efforts could be tested. For residents, the 53% drop in shoplifting (40 to 35) suggests effective retail crime prevention strategies are taking hold, though this category remains a priority for local authorities.

Gwynedd's crime rate in May 2024 rose 12.6% compared to April, moving from 6.9 to 7.8 per 1,000 residents. This upward trend contrasts with the area’s overall 7.1% below the UK average, highlighting a combination of local and national factors. On a daily basis, 30 crimes were reported over the 31 days of May, a figure that reflects the area’s population density and seasonal activity patterns. When scaled to the local population, the monthly exposure means one crime occurred for every 129 residents, a ratio that remains lower than many urban centres but higher than some rural districts. The increase in violent crime, despite Gwynedd’s generally lower crime profile, may be linked to May’s longer evenings and increased socialising, though no definitive causal link can be drawn. This context is critical for residents assessing risk and for policymakers targeting interventions.