Hereford Crime Rate May 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Hereford's built-up area recorded a crime rate of 8.7 per 1,000 residents in May 2025, placing it 7.4% above the UK average of 8.1. This figure reflects a combination of local factors and seasonal dynamics, with the area's crime profile dominated by violence and sexual offences (accounting for 42.7% of all reported crimes), followed by anti-social behaviour (14.0%) and shoplifting (13.9%). The prevalence of violent crime, which is 31% above the UK average, may be influenced by Hereford's status as a regional hub with a mix of urban and semi-rural characteristics, where population density and social interactions contribute to higher rates of such incidents. Anti-social behaviour, though lower than the UK average, remains a persistent concern, likely tied to the area's mix of residential and commercial zones. Shoplifting's sharp increase compared to the UK average (79% higher) suggests challenges in retail environments, potentially exacerbated by the influx of visitors during May's extended evenings and bank holidays. The seasonal context of May—characterised by longer days, warmer weather, and public holidays—may have contributed to increased outdoor activity and associated risks. The data illustrates a snapshot of Hereford's crime profile, where localised factors intersect with national trends to shape monthly outcomes.

Public order offences saw the most dramatic month-on-month increase, rising by 78.3% from 23 to 41 incidents. This surge aligns with May's extended evenings and bank holidays, which likely increased outdoor socialising and public drinking. Shoplifting also rose sharply, climbing 57.4% to 74 cases, a figure that is 79% above the UK average for this category. Meanwhile, theft from the person fell by 75.0%, dropping from 4 to 1 incident, reflecting a possible reduction in opportunistic crimes during busier retail periods. Vehicle crime decreased by 68.8%, from 16 to 5, a decline that may be linked to fewer overnight stays in the area during May. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of local crime patterns, with seasonal factors playing a clear role in shaping monthly trends.

Hereford's crime rate in May 2025 rose to 8.7 per 1,000 residents, marking a 20.8% increase from the previous month's rate of 7.2. This upward trend translates to roughly 17 crimes reported each day in the built-up area, a figure that, while localised, provides context for residents navigating the area. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 115 residents, a monthly aggregate that highlights the frequency of incidents in a community of 61,582 people. Comparing this to the previous month, the shift in crime patterns suggests a seasonal influence, as May's longer evenings and bank holidays may have contributed to increased public activity and associated risks. The population-scaled perspective underscores that while Hereford's rate is above the UK average, the relative density of incidents remains a manageable concern for local authorities and residents alike.