Oswaldtwistle Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Oswaldtwistle's overall crime rate in February 2026 stood at 9.2 per 1,000 residents, placing it 43.7% above the UK average of 6.4. This figure reflects a combination of local factors, including the area’s compact built-up nature and seasonal dynamics. The most prevalent crime type was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 45.7% of total incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (11.1%) and other theft (8.6%). These patterns align with the area’s character as a small, densely populated town where social interactions are frequent, and public spaces are closely knit. The winter months, with their lower outdoor activity and pre-spring lull, likely contribute to the concentration of crimes in indoor settings and community hubs. The rate of violent crimes was 81% above the UK average, with 37 incidents reported—suggesting a particular challenge in managing interpersonal conflicts during this time of year. While the overall rate remains elevated, the seasonal context offers some insight into potential fluctuations in the coming months, as spring activity may redistribute crime patterns.

February 2026 saw a significant 77.8% decrease in burglary compared to January, with incidents dropping from 9 to 2. This decline may reflect heightened community awareness or seasonal factors, such as reduced outdoor activity deterring break-ins. Conversely, criminal damage and arson surged by 300%, rising from 1 to 4 incidents—a stark increase that could be linked to colder weather prompting more indoor-related incidents or targeted vandalism. Drug-related crimes also rose sharply, doubling from 1 to 3, which may indicate shifts in local patterns or increased visibility during winter months. Anti-social behaviour fell by 55%, a reduction that could be attributed to shorter daylight hours limiting public gatherings or targeted interventions. Meanwhile, violent crimes remained high, with the area’s rate of 4.2 per 1,000 residents (45.7% of total crimes) 81% above the UK average. This highlights an urgent need for targeted measures in addressing interpersonal conflict, particularly in densely populated areas where social tensions may escalate.

Oswaldtwistle’s crime rate in February 2026 was 9.2 per 1,000 residents, a 5.9% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 9.7. This monthly decline suggests a temporary moderation in overall criminal activity, though the rate remains significantly above the UK average. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 3 crimes per day over the 28-day period, translating to one reported crime for every 109 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure figure, while not directly comparable to UK-wide metrics, provides context for local residents: for every 109 people in Oswaldtwistle, one crime was recorded in February. Given the area’s population of 8,833, this highlights the relative density of incidents in a small built-up area. The contrast between the 77.8% drop in burglary and the 300% spike in criminal damage and arson underscores the variability of crime types, influenced by both seasonal factors and localized pressures. While the decline in anti-social behaviour and public order offences offers some reassurance, the persistent elevation in violent crime and property-related incidents indicates ongoing challenges for local authorities.