Ross-on-Wye Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Ross-on-Wye, covering January 2025 to December 2025, present a complex picture. With a crime rate of 73.8 per 1,000 residents annually, the area sees a slightly lower rate of crime compared to the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. However, certain crime types, such as violence and sexual offences, remain a significant concern. The overall trend indicates a decrease in crime, with a 14.0% reduction year-on-year, a positive development for the community. Understanding the nuances of these figures is crucial for developing effective preventative strategies and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.

The most recent data for Ross-on-Wye, covering January 2025 to December 2025, reveals a concerning pattern of crime types. Violence and sexual offences account for the largest proportion of reported incidents, numbering 272 – representing 33.5% of all recorded crimes. Anti-social behaviour follows closely behind with 130 incidents (16.0%), and shoplifting contributes 117 crimes (14.4%). These three categories, alongside criminal damage and arson (78 incidents), demonstrate the prevalent issues within the area. Overall, property crime in Ross-on-Wye stands at 25.3 per 1,000 residents, indicating a need for targeted interventions and preventative measures. The prevalence of these specific crime types suggests a complex interplay of factors, possibly linked to the town’s social and economic characteristics, as well as its location and accessibility.

The crime statistics for Ross-on-Wye show a positive trend, with a decrease of 14.0% year-on-year. Examining the monthly data reveals fluctuations, with a peak in July and August (7.1 and 7.2 per 1,000 respectively) and a notable drop in September (4.8 per 1,000). December recorded a lower monthly rate (5.3 per 1,000). This overall downward trend suggests that ongoing preventative measures and community initiatives may be having a positive impact. Continued monitoring and analysis are crucial to sustain this progress and identify any emerging patterns or challenges.

How To Keep Safe in Ross-on-Wye

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. Avoid dimly lit areas and consider walking with a friend. Due to the frequency of shoplifting incidents, be vigilant when shopping and keep valuables secure. When leaving your vehicle unattended, ensure it's parked in a well-lit area and valuables are not visible. Finally, report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly. By taking these simple precautions, you can significantly enhance your personal safety in Ross-on-Wye.

Crimes in Ross-on-Wye exhibit a varied pattern throughout the day. Burglary attempts are most frequent during the night (12am-6am), accounting for 19% of incidents. Theft is more common during afternoon hours (12pm-6pm), with 42% of thefts occurring then. Vehicle crime peaks overnight (11pm-6am) at 20%, suggesting a vulnerability during these hours. Anti-social behaviour and other crimes display a more dispersed pattern throughout the day, with a higher concentration in the afternoon and evening. Understanding these trends can help individuals and local authorities to target preventative measures more effectively.

Ross-on-Wye's crime rate of 73.8 per 1,000 residents is notably higher than that of several neighbouring areas, such as Wilton and Bridstow, Weston under Penyard, and Lea (Herefordshire), all of which currently report a crime rate of 0.0. However, Ruardean, situated slightly further afield, exhibits a crime rate of 54.0 per 1,000, suggesting a variance in crime levels across the wider region. These differences likely stem from a combination of factors including population density, socio-economic conditions, and the presence of specific local amenities.

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