Ross-on-Wye Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

August 2023 marked a notable rise in violent crime in Ross-on-Wye, with the overall crime rate reaching 9.5 per 1,000 residents—17.3% above the UK average of 8.1. This outlier status is largely driven by an 8.5% increase in violence and sexual offences, which now account for 42.3% of all reported crimes, 52% above the UK average. The area’s crime profile reflects a combination of seasonal factors and local geography. As a small built-up area within Herefordshire, Ross-on-Wye’s proximity to rural zones may contribute to a lower rate of vehicle crime (0.2 per 1,000, 59% below the UK average) compared to densely populated urban centres. However, the surge in violent crime may be partly explained by the town’s role as a tourist destination during the summer months, when transient populations and increased foot traffic in public spaces could heighten opportunities for offences. The breakdown of crimes also reveals a stark contrast between property and violent crime: while property crimes (34 incidents) constitute 32.7% of the total, violent crimes dominate the statistics. This imbalance is consistent with other small towns in England where violence often outpaces property crime during peak holiday periods. Anti-social behaviour. from July, remains a persistent concern, with 12 incidents reported in August. The area’s crime picture thus illustrates a tension between the benefits of tourism—such as economic activity—and the challenges of managing public safety in a community that sees fluctuating visitor numbers.

August 2023 witnessed significant fluctuations in crime types. Vehicle crime more than doubled from zero to two incidents, a 100% increase, despite the category being 59% below the UK average. Criminal damage and arson rose by 80%, jumping from five to nine cases, a trend that may align with the area’s seasonal context of increased tourism and empty homes during the summer. Conversely, shoplifting fell by 50% to six incidents, potentially reflecting tighter retail security measures or reduced foot traffic during holidays. Anti-social behaviour decreased by 29.4%, from 17 to 12 cases, suggesting a temporary shift in community dynamics. Violent crimes—accounting for 42.3% of all reported incidents—remain 52% above the UK average, a disparity that may be influenced by local factors such as the town’s proximity to major transport routes. Residents may find the 50% drop in shoplifting, the most significant monthly decline, particularly reassuring for local businesses.

Ross-on-Wye’s crime rate in August 2023 rose 7.3% from the previous month’s 8.8 per 1,000 to 9.5 per 1,000. While this places the area 17.3% above the UK average, the daily crime count remains relatively low: an average of three crimes reported each day. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for every 106 residents, a figure that contextualises the rate within the local population. This monthly exposure is consistent with the area’s smaller population (10,996 residents) compared to larger urban centres, where crime density tends to be higher. The increase in violent crimes, which now account for 42.3% of all reported incidents, contrasts with a 29.4% decline in anti-social behaviour, suggesting a shift in crime patterns that may reflect seasonal dynamics. Despite the rise in overall crime, the rate remains below the UK average for vehicle crime, which is 59% lower than the national figure. This discrepancy highlights the importance of local factors, such as Ross-on-Wye’s proximity to rural areas, which may reduce opportunities for vehicle-related offences.