Horsham Crime Rate February 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Horsham's built-up area recorded a crime rate of 5.2 per 1,000 residents in February 2025, placing it 22.4% below the UK average of 6.7 per 1,000. This consistent performance aligns with the area's character as a largely rural commuter town with limited high-density urban zones. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 29.5% of all crimes, followed by shoplifting (17.7%) and anti-social behaviour (16.2%). The seasonal context of February—a winter month with reduced outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—may partly explain the lower-than-average rates for property crimes, though violent crime remains a persistent concern. Shoplifting's 45% above the UK average suggests ongoing challenges in retail environments, while anti-social behaviour's 7% below the UK average reflects the area's generally orderly community character. The data shows a stable crime picture, with no sharp spikes in violent crime despite the winter season, though targeted interventions in retail areas may help address shoplifting trends.

The most dramatic month-on-month shift was a 250% increase in theft from the person, rising from 2 to 7 incidents. This surge, while small in absolute terms, highlights a growing risk for residents and visitors in public spaces. Concurrently, vehicle crime jumped 85.7% (7 to 13), potentially linked to seasonal changes in parking patterns or increased vehicle usage during colder weather. Shoplifting remained 45% above the UK average at 0.9 per 1,000, suggesting persistent pressures in retail sectors despite the winter lull. Conversely, other crime dropped 64.3% (14 to 5), and drugs offences fell 60% (10 to 4), possibly reflecting reduced social interactions during colder months. For residents, the 250% rise in theft from the person underscores the importance of vigilance in crowded areas, particularly during peak shopping times or public events.

Horsham's crime rate in February 2025 remained stable compared to January, with a -1.7% decrease from 5.3 to 5.2 per 1,000 residents. This continuity suggests no major disruptions in the area's crime profile during the winter months. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 10 crimes per day, a figure that contextualises the monthly total of 271 incidents. Over the course of February, one reported crime occurred for every 192 residents, illustrating the relatively low exposure to crime compared to larger urban centres. When viewed through a population-scaled lens, Horsham's performance—particularly its 22.4% below the UK average—demonstrates the effectiveness of local policing and community initiatives in maintaining safety. The stable rate contrasts with areas where crime fluctuates more sharply with seasonal changes, highlighting Horsham's consistent approach to crime prevention despite its commuter town characteristics.