Sutton St Nicholas Crime Rate

Sutton St Nicholas recorded a crime rate of 20.9 per 1,000 residents over the past year, 77% below the UK average. The most striking finding is the 350% year-on-year increase in violence and sexual offences, which, while still below the national average, highlights a sharp rise in this category. Despite this, the area remains one of the safest in the UK, with property crime rates 78.9% lower than the national average.

Sutton St Nicholas is a small built-up area within Herefordshire, characterised by its close-knit community and limited commercial activity. Its low population density and rural proximity likely contribute to lower property crime rates, as there are fewer high-traffic areas or retail centres to drive theft. However, the area's social dynamics and seasonal events may influence fluctuations in violence and sexual offences, which have seen a sharp rise despite remaining below the UK average.

The most surprising finding is the 350% year-on-year increase in violence and sexual offences, which remains 62% below the UK average. This sharp rise could be linked to isolated incidents or seasonal factors, such as post-holiday gatherings. Other theft and criminal damage and arson also show modest increases but remain significantly below national rates. The area's low property crime rate—78.9% below the UK average—likely reflects its sparse population and limited commercial activity, reducing opportunities for opportunistic crimes like burglary or vehicle theft. Anti-social behaviour is 91% below the UK average, suggesting strong community cohesion despite the recent spike in violent crime.

Crime in Sutton St Nicholas has increased by 138.5% year-on-year, with violence and sexual offences rising by 350%—a sharp spike despite remaining 62% below the UK average. Monthly data shows a peak in February 2026 (4.0 per 1,000/month), suggesting seasonal factors such as post-holiday gatherings or increased social activity during winter months. Other theft has also risen by 25%, but remains 44% below the UK average. This trend contrasts with the area's overall safety, highlighting the need for targeted measures around rising violent crime.

How To Keep Safe in Sutton St Nicholas

Residents should focus on securing vehicles during peak theft hours (afternoon and evening), as vehicle crime, though low, remains a risk. Automated lighting and motion sensors can deter burglars, who are more active at night (17% of night-time crimes). For property, consider AI-based systems that detect threats before they escalate, leveraging the area's low crime rate to maintain vigilance without over-reliance on traditional alarms. Community cohesion is already strong, but staying aware of local patterns—such as the sharp rise in violence and sexual offences—can help tailor personal safety measures effectively.

Crime in Sutton St Nicholas peaks during afternoons and evenings, with theft accounting for 70% of afternoon crimes and 35% of evening incidents. This aligns with daily rhythms, as increased foot traffic during the day and social activity in the evening create opportunities for theft. Burglary, though rare, is more common at night (17% of night-time crimes), potentially linked to isolated properties or unoccupied homes. Vehicle crime also rises overnight, likely due to unsecured vehicles in residential areas. These patterns highlight the importance of securing homes and vehicles during peak hours.

Compared to the UK average, Sutton St Nicholas is significantly safer, with crime rates 77.1% below the national benchmark. While no specific neighbouring area data is available, the area's low crime rate and high safety score (94/100) suggest it is among the most secure in Herefordshire.

In Sutton St Nicholas, a low-crime area with a safety score of 94/100, proactive security measures are key. Given the area's low vehicle crime rate (85% below UK average), securing vehicles with alarms or automated lighting can deter opportunistic theft. For homes, AI-powered systems that detect and respond to threats in real-time offer proportionate protection without overcomplicating daily life. These systems can distinguish regular activity from potential intrusions, reducing false alarms while maintaining the area's natural safety.