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

The crime profile in Ross-on-Wye during July 2023 reveals a striking equilibrium between property and violent crimes, with both categories accounting for 35% of total reported incidents. This balance, rare in most UK areas, suggests a combination of seasonal factors and local dynamics influencing criminal activity. The overall crime rate of 8.8 per 1,000 residents places the area 6% above the UK average of 8.3, reflecting a slightly higher level of criminal activity relative to national trends. Violence and sexual offences emerged as the most prevalent category, comprising 35.1% of all crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (17.5%) and shoplifting (12.4%). This distribution aligns with July's typical patterns in a built-up area of Herefordshire, where tourism peaks during summer festivals and school holidays create a unique environment. The sharp rise in shoplifting—83% above the UK average—likely correlates with increased foot traffic in retail zones, while the high rate of violence and sexual offences may reflect the social dynamics of a town with a mix of permanent residents and transient visitors. The seasonal context of July, marked by festivals and outdoor events, appears to amplify both property-related and interpersonal crime opportunities. This interplay of factors suggests that Ross-on-Wye's crime profile in July is shaped by both its urban characteristics and the temporary influx of visitors, creating a distinct pattern compared to other months of the year.

July 2023 saw dramatic shifts in crime patterns compared to June, with shoplifting, drugs offences, and possession of weapons all doubling in reported incidents. This 100% increase in shoplifting—jumping from 6 to 12 cases—represents the most significant month-on-month change, placing this category 83% above the UK average. The rise in shoplifting aligns with the area's status as a tourist destination during July, when festivals and events likely increase retail footfall. Conversely, anti-social behaviour fell by 26.1%, from 23 to 17 incidents, possibly reflecting the dispersal of transient populations as events concluded. The balance between property and violent crimes remained equal at 34 each, a rare occurrence in UK statistics, and may indicate that the town's mix of residential and commercial spaces creates parallel opportunities for both types of crime. Violence and sexual offences, at 3.1 per 1,000 residents, exceeded the UK average by 12%, while anti-social behaviour also outperformed national rates by 13%. These figures suggest that Ross-on-Wye's built-up area—likely including the historic town centre and surrounding retail corridors—presents a unique environment where both property crime and interpersonal violence are represented compared to the UK as a whole.

The crime rate in Ross-on-Wye rose 10.3% from 8.0 per 1,000 in June to 8.8 per 1,000 in July, marking a notable upward trend over the past month. This increase, while modest in absolute terms, translates to a significant shift in the local crime environment, with daily crime rates averaging 3 incidents per day across 31 days. Over the course of July, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 113 residents, a monthly exposure figure that provides context for residents considering their personal risk. This rate, though slightly higher than the UK average, remains within the normal range for a built-up area of Herefordshire. The population-scaled perspective shows that while the rate is elevated, the absolute number of crimes (97) remains relatively low compared to larger urban centres. The 10.3% increase from June may reflect the seasonal nature of the town's crime patterns, with tourism and festivals in July creating conditions that differ from the quieter summer months. This comparison highlights the importance of viewing crime statistics through both a local and national lens, recognizing that Ross-on-Wye's unique characteristics—its historic charm, tourism infrastructure, and mixed residential/commercial land use—shape its crime profile in ways distinct from other parts of the UK.