Potters Bar Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Potters Bar reveal a concerning picture, with a recorded rate of 94.4 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. While this figure is marginally lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, the recent upward trend requires attention. Over the period, crime has increased by a significant 10.4% year-on-year, suggesting an escalation in criminal activity. Understanding the types of crimes occurring, and the factors contributing to these trends, is crucial for developing effective safety strategies and reassuring the local community. This overview provides a detailed breakdown of crime patterns and offers practical advice for residents.

Potters Bar demonstrates a concerning pattern of crime types. Violence and sexual offences constitute the largest proportion, accounting for 706 incidents, representing 30.7% of all recorded crimes. Anti-social behaviour follows closely, with 373 reported instances, comprising 16.2% of the total. Shoplifting also presents a notable concern, with 310 occurrences, contributing 13.5% to the overall crime statistics. The prevalence of these crimes suggests a complex interplay of factors, potentially including socioeconomic conditions, population density, and the local business environment. Further investigation into these contributing factors could inform targeted preventative measures and resource allocation to improve community safety. The higher incidence of violence and sexual offences compared to the UK average warrants particular attention and targeted interventions.

The recorded crime rate in Potters Bar has been steadily increasing. From January 2025 to December 2025, monthly crime rates fluctuated, but consistently remained above the baseline of 7.8 per 1,000 residents in January. Notable peaks occurred in March (10.0 per 1,000) and December (8.4 per 1,000). This 10.4% year-on-year increase highlights a concerning trend that demands further investigation and proactive measures to mitigate the risk to residents and businesses.

How To Keep Safe in Potters Bar

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. Consider sticking to well-lit, populated routes. Shoplifting is also a concern, so be mindful of your belongings when visiting local businesses. Secure your vehicles properly, locking doors and removing valuables to prevent vehicle crime. Finally, consider joining or forming a neighbourhood watch scheme to foster community vigilance and deter criminal activity.

Crime in Potters Bar displays varying patterns throughout the day. Burglary incidents are more frequent during the afternoon and evening, with a slight spike overnight. Violence tends to peak during the evening hours, particularly on weekends. Theft sees its highest incidence during commercial hours in the afternoon. Vehicle crime is noticeably elevated overnight, suggesting opportunities during periods of reduced visibility and activity. Understanding these patterns can help residents and local authorities to target preventative measures more effectively.

Potters Bar’s crime rate stands out when compared to surrounding areas. North Mymms and Northaw report zero crime, showcasing remarkably safe environments. Brookmans Park has a lower rate of 32.8 per 1,000, suggesting a safer community. However, South Mymms presents a stark contrast with a significantly higher rate of 474.2 per 1,000, highlighting a considerable disparity in crime levels within the wider Hertsmere region. These variations underscore the importance of localised safety strategies and resource allocation.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a crime has occurred – a reactive measure. Reading crime statistics like those for Potters Bar is one thing; actually preventing threats at your property line is another. scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, offers a proactive approach. Using multi-camera intelligence, it constantly monitors your property boundary, instantly verifying vehicles with DVLA data and learning your family's routines. This allows it to detect and respond to genuine threats before they escalate, engaging lights and speakers to create an element of surprise that often deters potential intruders. Most burglars decide within 60 seconds – scOS makes that decision easy for them: they move on.