Hereford Crime Rate

Hereford recorded a crime rate of 92.1 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This figure is virtually identical to the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting that the area experiences crime rates broadly in line with the national picture. However, a closer examination reveals variations in specific crime types. While the overall trend shows a stable crime rate, with a decrease of 4.8% year-on-year, fluctuations occur month to month. For example, crime rates peaked in May 2025 at 8.7 per 1,000 and were relatively low in February at 6.1 per 1,000, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and targeted interventions.

Hereford's crime statistics reveal a concerning prevalence of violence and sexual offences, accounting for 39.1% of all recorded incidents. These are followed by anti-social behaviour (17.1%) and shoplifting (11.2%). While criminal damage and arson represent a smaller proportion (7.8%), public order offences also contribute significantly (6.8%). Property crime, in general, accounts for 27.7 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, a figure that requires consideration. The relatively low incidence of burglary (1.9 per 1,000) is a positive aspect, but the presence of vehicle crime (1.2 per 1,000) and other theft (4.6 per 1,000) warrants attention. The distribution of these crimes reflects a blend of urban challenges and potential social factors impacting the community.

The overall crime rate in Hereford has remained stable, demonstrating a 4.8% decrease year-on-year. However, monthly fluctuations indicate variations in crime patterns. Crime rates were highest in May 2025 (8.7 per 1,000), and lowest in February 2025 (6.1 per 1,000). This variability underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions to address specific crime hotspots and trends.

How To Keep Safe in Hereford

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Report any suspicious activity to the police promptly. Due to the level of shoplifting, secure your belongings when shopping and be mindful of pickpockets. Consider joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to foster community vigilance. Finally, ensure your home is well-lit and that you have secure locks on all doors and windows, particularly during the evening.

Crimes in Hereford show distinct time patterns. During the morning (6am-12pm), burglaries account for 7% of incidents, while theft represents a significant 45%. Vehicle crime is less prevalent, at 6%, and other crimes make up 42%. In the afternoon (12pm-6pm), burglaries rise to 11%, theft remains high at 45%, and other crimes account for 41%. The evening (6pm-12am) sees a shift, with theft dropping to 19%, while other crimes increase to 65%. Vehicle crime rises to 5%, and burglaries make up 10%. Finally, during the night (12am-6am), burglaries account for 15% of incidents, theft decreases to 11%, and vehicle crime increases to 17%, with other crimes representing 57%.

Comparing Hereford to surrounding areas, King's Acre and Burghill share a similar crime rate of 27.7 and 27.9 per 1,000 respectively. However, Lugwardine and Hampton Bishop demonstrate significantly lower rates at 0.0 per 1,000, suggesting potential variations in local factors influencing crime levels across the wider Herefordshire region. These comparisons provide a broader context for understanding Hereford's crime statistics.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred. scOS, however, offers a proactive approach. Reading crime statistics is one thing; preventing crime at your property line is another. scOS’s AI-powered system detects threats at the boundary, utilising multi-camera intelligence to watch your property continuously. DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles, and pattern learning recognises family members and deliveries, minimising false alarms. The visible presence of scOS, with its autonomous response – activating lights and speakers – creates an element of surprise, often deterring potential intruders before they even attempt entry. Most burglars decide within 60 seconds – scOS makes that decision easy for them: they move on.