Horsham Crime Rate November 2023 | Monthly Statistics

November 2023 marked a continuation of Horsham’s trend toward lower crime rates compared to the UK average, with a recorded rate of 6.5 per 1,000 residents — 13.3% below the national average of 7.5. This figure follows a 5.8% decrease from October’s rate of 6.9, suggesting a gradual improvement in safety. The most common crime type was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 34.6% of all incidents, though this category was 15% below the UK average. Shoplifting (14.6% of total crimes) and anti-social behaviour (14.3%) were the next most frequent, with shoplifting exceeding the UK average by 64%. Seasonal factors likely contributed to these patterns: the proximity of Black Friday shopping and the onset of darker evenings may have influenced retail-related offences and anti-social behaviour. Meanwhile, the town’s lower rates of burglary (71% below the UK average) and vehicle crime (20% below) suggest effective local measures or demographic factors, such as a higher proportion of owner-occupied homes or limited commercial vehicle activity. The data highlights a combination of seasonal pressures and underlying community resilience, with no single factor explaining all trends.

November saw sharp increases in vehicle crime (+144.4%) and drug-related offences (+80%), though these rises were offset by significant declines in burglary (-63.6%) and robbery (-50%). The surge in vehicle crime may reflect heightened activity during the festive season, with more vehicles parked in public spaces or increased opportunities for theft in retail areas. Conversely, the drop in burglary could be linked to improved home security measures or seasonal changes in criminal focus. Shoplifting remained a standout issue, with rates 64% above the UK average, driven by Black Friday promotions and the town’s retail presence. Anti-social behaviour, while still a concern, was 14% below the UK average, which may indicate effective local policing or community engagement initiatives. The data also reveals a paradox: while violence and sexual offences were 15% below the UK average, shoplifting and public order offences exceeded expectations. This contrast underscores the need for targeted interventions in retail zones and public spaces without compromising broader safety efforts. For residents, the 14.6% share of shoplifting crimes highlights the importance of vigilance during peak shopping periods.

Horsham’s crime rate in November (6.5 per 1,000) was 5.8% lower than October’s 6.9, reflecting a sustained decline over recent months. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 11 crimes per day — a figure that, while low, underscores the need for continued attention to emerging trends. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 155 residents, a monthly exposure rate that is lower than the UK average. This statistic is particularly meaningful for local residents, as it contextualises the likelihood of encountering crime in everyday life. The population-scaled perspective also reveals Horsham’s relative safety: with 51,957 residents, the town’s total of 335 crimes represents a manageable volume compared to larger urban centres. However, the sharp rise in vehicle crime (+144.4%) and drug-related offences (+80%) highlights areas requiring further scrutiny. While the overall trend is positive, these increases suggest that seasonal factors and evolving criminal behaviour patterns must be addressed through targeted strategies, such as enhanced CCTV coverage in high-traffic areas or community education on drug prevention.