Herefordshire Crime Rate July 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Herefordshire's crime profile in July 2024, accounting for 41% of all reported incidents. At 5.3 per 1,000 residents, the area's crime rate was 36.9% below the UK average, a position reinforced by consistently low levels of property crime and public order offences. This pattern aligns with Herefordshire's rural and semi-rural character, where lower population density and limited urban centres may contribute to reduced opportunities for certain types of crime. The dominance of violent offences over property crime contrasts with national trends, where property crime often leads in many areas. Seasonal factors likely played a role, as July's peak tourism season, festivals, and extended daylight hours may have influenced crime dynamics. While violence remains the most significant category, the 23% gap between Herefordshire's rate and the UK average for this category highlights the area's unique profile. Anti-social behaviour also featured prominently, though its rate was 31% below the UK average, suggesting local efforts or environmental factors may be contributing to lower levels of disorder. The overall rate, while stable, reflects a combination of geographic and demographic factors that distinguish Herefordshire from more densely populated regions.

July 2024 saw a 42.9% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 21 to 30 incidents. This sharp rise may be linked to the summer season, when outdoor events and festivals increase traffic and parking activity, creating more opportunities for vehicle-related offences. Conversely, possession of weapons fell by 28.6% (from 14 to 10), suggesting a possible reduction in related incidents during the summer months. The rate of violence and sexual offences remained 23% below the UK average, a consistent trend that may reflect Herefordshire's rural character and lower population density. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour incidents decreased by 31% compared to the UK average, reinforcing the area's generally lower levels of disorder. These fluctuations illustrate how seasonal factors and local demographics can shape crime patterns, even within a relatively stable overall rate.

Herefordshire's crime rate in July 2024 stood at 5.3 per 1,000 residents, a 5.3% decrease from the previous month's rate of 5.6. This decline aligns with broader seasonal trends, as summer holidays and festivals may have temporarily reduced opportunities for certain crimes. Daily crime statistics reveal 33 reported incidents per day, a figure that, while consistent with the area's character, remains significantly lower than the UK average. Over the course of July, one crime occurred for every 188 residents, a monthly aggregate that contextualises the scale of incidents relative to the population. With Herefordshire's population at 191,047, this ratio underscores the area's relatively low crime exposure compared to other regions. The decrease in violent crime rates, particularly in possession of weapons and robbery, may reflect seasonal shifts in public activity, though further analysis would be needed to confirm direct links. The daily crime count remains a useful metric for residents, offering a tangible sense of local risk levels.