West Chiltington Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in West Chiltington

West Chiltington, a built-up area with a population of 3,445 residents, boasts an exceptionally low overall crime rate of 27.0 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is significantly below the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000, establishing West Chiltington as a highly safe community. The area's commitment to safety is reflected in its impressive safety score of 93 out of 100, which far exceeds the national average of 78. However, West Chiltington has experienced an increasing trend in crime, with a 19.2% rise year-over-year. These statistics provide a comprehensive overview of the local crime landscape, highlighting its remarkable safety while noting a recent upward shift in criminal activity.

Crime Breakdown in West Chiltington

An analysis of crime types in West Chiltington identifies Violence and sexual offences as the most common category, with 34 incidents, accounting for 9.9 per 1,000 residents and a significant 36.6% of all recorded crimes. Vehicle crime ranks as the second most frequent offence, with 14 crimes (4.1 per 1,000, 15.1% of total), indicating a concern for vehicle-related security. Criminal damage and arson are the third most frequent, with 10 incidents (2.9 per 1,000, 10.8% of total), indicating issues related to property harm.

West Chiltington's property crime rate stands at 10.7 per 1,000 people per year, which is considerably lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category encompasses Burglary (6 crimes, 1.7 per 1,000), Other theft (7 crimes, 2.0 per 1,000), Criminal damage and arson (10 crimes, 2.9 per 1,000), and Vehicle crime (14 crimes, 4.1 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these figures indicate a very low risk of property-related offences, though awareness, particularly regarding vehicle crime and criminal damage, remains sensible.

Crime Trends in West Chiltington

West Chiltington has experienced a significant increasing crime trend, with a 19.2% rise in total crimes year-over-year. This indicates a notable upward shift in crime activity over the past twelve months. Reviewing the monthly trend data, the crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated, starting at 1.2 in October 2024 and reaching a peak of 4.9 in November and December 2024. While there were some monthly variations, the overall trajectory points towards an increase. This upward trend, though from a low base, suggests a need for continued vigilance and awareness regarding local crime developments, particularly concerning vehicle crime and violence.

Time Patterns of Crime in West Chiltington

An analysis of crime patterns throughout the day in West Chiltington BUA reveals distinct trends. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), vehicle crime is most prevalent at 35%, alongside theft at 25% and burglary at 14%, as residents commute and commercial areas open. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees an increase in theft to 31% and burglary to 27%, while vehicle crime drops to 14%, likely driven by heightened activity in public spaces. In the evening (6pm-12am), 'other' crimes become most significant at 39%, with vehicle crime at 32% and burglary at 19%, reflecting social activities. Night-time (12am-6am) is characterised by a notable surge in vehicle crime to 59% and 'other' crimes to 20%, with burglary at 17%, suggesting a focus on unattended properties during hours of darkness.

Crime in Nearby Areas

To contextualise West Chiltington's crime statistics, it is helpful to compare them with neighbouring built-up areas such as Nutbourne, Abingworth, Thakeham, and Pulborough. These settlements, mostly within the Horsham local authority, offer a localised perspective on crime. West Chiltington's impressively low crime rate and high safety score position it favourably amongst its neighbours. While Pulborough has a higher crime rate, Nutbourne, Abingworth, and Thakeham are likely to share similar low crime profiles. These comparisons help residents understand West Chiltington's relative safety within its immediate geographical context, reinforcing its status as a secure community.

Protecting Your Property in West Chiltington

Despite West Chiltington's exceptionally low property crime rate of 10.7 per 1,000 people, proactive security remains a wise investment. Traditional security solutions, such as basic CCTV, typically only capture footage after a crime has occurred, meaning you have a recording of a burglary rather than a prevention. For true peace of mind and effective deterrence, advanced security systems should be considered.

An AI-powered home security operating system like scOS is designed to prevent crime before it happens. It proactively detects threats at your property boundary using multi-camera intelligence, monitoring all cameras simultaneously. This allows for real-time intervention, unlike reactive systems that notify you after the event. Features such as autonomous response, including activating lights and engaging speakers, eliminate the element of surprise for potential intruders. Most burglars make a decision within 60 seconds; visible and intelligent deterrence from professional-grade equipment like scOS makes them move on, actively safeguarding your property against potential offences.