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

Violence and sexual offences dominated Ross-on-Wye’s crime profile in June 2023, accounting for 35.2% of all reported incidents. This category, at 2.8 per 1,000 residents, remained 4% below the UK average, a pattern that may be partly explained by the area’s relatively small population and the limited presence of high-risk environments such as late-night venues or densely populated urban centres. Anti-social behaviour, the second most common category, rose to 26.1% of all crimes, far outpacing the UK average by 42%. This disparity could be attributed to the seasonal shift into summer, when extended daylight hours and increased social activity in public spaces may contribute to a higher incidence of disruptive behaviour. Public order offences, though lower in volume, also showed a notable 10% deficit compared to national averages, reflecting the town’s quieter character compared to larger urban areas. The overall crime rate of 8.0 per 1,000 residents placed Ross-on-Wye 5.9% below the UK average, a position that aligns with the area’s status as a built-up rural district with limited commercial or nightlife infrastructure. Seasonal factors appear to play a role in shaping these patterns, as June marks the beginning of the summer season, when tourism in coastal regions may divert attention and resources away from inland areas like Herefordshire. This dynamic could explain the relatively low rates of property crimes such as burglary and vehicle crime, which are often more prevalent in urban centres with higher foot traffic and more opportunities for theft. The data also highlights the importance of local context in interpreting crime statistics, as Ross-on-Wye’s unique geography and demographics—characterised by a mix of historic buildings, rural landscapes, and a modest population—likely contribute to its distinct crime profile compared to larger cities or more densely populated regions.

June 2023 saw sharp increases in three categories: other crime, drugs, and robbery, each doubling from their previous month totals. This spike in lesser-reported crimes may reflect underreporting in earlier months or emerging local issues requiring closer attention. Conversely, criminal damage and arson fell by 70%, and vehicle crime dropped by 62.5%, potentially linked to improved community policing efforts or seasonal changes in outdoor activity. Violence and sexual offences, at 2.8 per 1,000, remained 4% below the UK average, a consistent trend that may be influenced by the area’s small-town dynamics and lower population density. Anti-social behaviour, however, surged 42% above the UK average, with 23 incidents reported—a figure that could signal pressures from increased foot traffic during early summer or challenges in managing local community spaces.

Ross-on-Wye's crime rate in June 2023 fell by 19.3% compared to the previous month, dropping from 9.9 to 8.0 per 1,000 residents. This decline aligns with a broader seasonal trend often observed in small towns during early summer, when tourism activity begins to shift toward coastal areas. Locally, the daily crime count averaged three incidents per day, a figure that provides context for residents assessing routine risks. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 125 residents, a monthly exposure rate that reflects the area’s relatively low overall crime levels compared to larger urban centres. This statistic is particularly meaningful for parents and local businesses, offering a tangible measure of safety against which to compare other months or areas. The population of 10,996 further scales this data, ensuring that comparisons remain grounded in the specific demographics of Ross-on-Wye rather than generic national averages.