Billingshurst Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Billingshurst's crime rate of 10.3 per 1,000 residents in August 2023 places it 27.2% above the UK average of 8.1. This small built-up area within Horsham exhibits a distinct crime profile shaped by its character as a commuter hub with limited industrial activity. Violence and sexual offences (27 cases) account for 23.5% of all crimes, followed by vehicle crime (23 cases) and shoplifting (17 cases). The elevated rate may partly reflect seasonal dynamics: August is a peak holiday month, increasing tourism and potentially straining local resources. Vehicle crime, though 329% above the UK average, saw a 28.1% month-on-month decline, linked to summer holidays reducing car usage. Conversely, shoplifting rose sharply—142.9% compared to July—and public order offences surged by 175%, suggesting heightened foot traffic in town centres. The area’s relatively low burglary rate (4.4% of total crimes) contrasts with its higher property crime share, consistent with a community where retail presence and public spaces drive certain offence types. These patterns highlight the interplay between local geography, seasonal rhythms, and the broader national crime profile.

August 2023 saw sharp increases in public order offences (+175%), shoplifting (+142.9%), and other theft (+100%), while vehicle crime and burglary decreased. Public order offences, now at 11 cases, are 67% above the UK average, likely reflecting higher foot traffic during peak holiday season. Shoplifting’s 150% excess over UK rates may be tied to retail activity. Vehicle crime, despite being 329% above the UK average, fell by 28.1% compared to July, possibly due to fewer commuters or increased vehicle security measures. Anti-social behaviour (17 cases) remained only 4% above the UK average, suggesting local community engagement may temper such incidents. Residents might find the 4 crimes per day figure (115 total) useful for contextualising risk, though this is lower than the national average of 2.6 crimes per 1,000 residents. The contrast between falling burglary rates and rising property crimes illustrates the complex relationship between crime types in this area.

Billingshurst’s crime rate of 10.3 per 1,000 residents in August 2023 is 21.0% higher than July’s 8.5 rate, marking a significant upward trend. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly 4 crimes per day, a figure that, while higher than the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000, translates to a manageable frequency for a community of 11,140 residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 97 residents, a monthly exposure rate that, while elevated, does not indicate a crisis. Comparing to the UK, Billingshurst’s violent crime rate (2.4 per 1,000) is 9% below the national average, suggesting local factors—such as community cohesion or policing strategies—may mitigate violence. However, vehicle crime’s 329% excess over UK rates highlights systemic vulnerabilities, possibly linked to parking density or infrastructure. The area’s unique profile, with crime rates diverging sharply from the UK in specific categories, underscores the need for tailored analysis rather than broad generalisations. These figures provide a nuanced picture of risk, balancing local challenges against the broader national context.