Hertsmere Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Hertsmere

Hertsmere reports an overall crime rate of 97.0 per 1,000 people per year, placing it slightly above the UK national average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area maintains a safety score of 78 out of 100, aligning with the UK average, suggesting a generally secure environment despite the marginally higher crime figures. In terms of recent trends, Hertsmere's crime rate has remained stable, showing a minor 3.8% change year-over-year. This overview sets the context for a more detailed examination of specific crime types, trends, and comparisons with neighbouring areas.

About Hertsmere

Hertsmere is a diverse local authority district combining urban centres like Borehamwood and Potters Bar with more suburban and rural areas. Its proximity to London, along with major transport links such as the M1 and A1(M) motorways, contributes to a dynamic environment. The presence of Elstree Studios and various commercial hubs attracts both residents and a transient population, influencing daily activities and demographic patterns. Residential areas are interspersed with retail and light industrial zones. These characteristics, including population density variations and accessibility, can play a role in shaping the local crime landscape, impacting both the overall crime rate and the safety score observed in the district.

Crime Type Analysis in Hertsmere

An analysis of crime types in Hertsmere reveals that Violence and sexual offences represent the most significant category, accounting for 3,318 crimes or 31.0% of the total, at a rate of 30.1 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour follows as the second most prevalent issue with 1,972 incidents (18.4% of total), at a rate of 17.9 per 1,000. Other theft ranks third, with 1,002 reported crimes, making up 9.4% of the total and a rate of 9.1 per 1,000.

Property-related crime, encompassing categories such as burglary, other theft, vehicle crime, criminal damage and arson, robbery, and bicycle theft, collectively presents a rate of 37.6 per 1,000 people per year in Hertsmere. This figure is slightly above the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. For residents and homeowners, understanding these patterns highlights the importance of securing personal belongings and properties, particularly given the prevalence of theft and vehicle-related offences within the district.

Crime Trends in Hertsmere

Hertsmere has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a minor 3.8% increase year-over-year. Examining the monthly data provides a clearer picture of fluctuations within this period. The crime rate per 1,000 residents saw variations, with a noticeable dip in December 2024 (7.1) and September 2025 (6.9), suggesting potentially lower activity during these months. Conversely, May 2025 recorded a higher rate of 8.9, indicating a potential peak. Despite these monthly changes, the overall trend suggests that crime levels have not significantly escalated or decreased, providing a relatively consistent environment for residents. This stability indicates that while vigilance remains important, there haven't been dramatic shifts in the local crime landscape.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When comparing Hertsmere's crime statistics with its neighbours, a regional context emerges. Hertsmere's overall crime rate of 97.0 per 1,000 is slightly higher than the UK average. Nearby Barnet, Watford, and Harrow are larger urban centres that may present different crime profiles due to population density and commercial activity. Welwyn Hatfield and St Albans, while also in Hertfordshire, often exhibit varying characteristics. Three Rivers, generally considered a safer district, offers another point of comparison. Understanding these differences helps residents contextualise Hertsmere's figures within the broader regional safety landscape and identify areas with similar or contrasting crime challenges.

Protecting Your Home in Hertsmere

Given Hertsmere's property crime rate of 37.6 per 1,000 people per year, which is slightly above the national average, proactive home security measures are particularly relevant for residents. Traditional security cameras often only provide footage after a burglary has occurred, acting reactively rather than preventatively. If you are seeking real protection, consider an AI-powered system like scOS. This type of system is designed to prevent crime before it happens by detecting threats at your property boundary, rather than simply recording an incident after a break-in.

scOS, for instance, uses multi-camera intelligence to watch all cameras simultaneously, ensuring nothing is missed. It can even verify vehicle registrations and learn your routines to only alert on genuine threats. The goal is to intervene in real-time; visible deterrence makes potential intruders move on, often within the critical 60 seconds they take to decide. Professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, offering a significant advantage over basic DIY systems that might only notify you after the fact. Focus on prevention to safeguard your home and deter criminals effectively.