Rishton Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

The most striking finding in January 2026 was the unexpected 100% increase in 'other theft' cases, which jumped from 3 to 6 incidents, a figure 96% above the UK average. This surge, occurring against a backdrop of a 5.9% overall rise in Rishton’s crime rate (7.2 per 1,000 residents), highlights a shift in criminal activity that defies typical seasonal patterns. While the area’s overall rate remains 5.9% above the UK average, the breakdown reveals stark contrasts: violence and sexual offences dominate with 19 cases (39.6% of total), 16% above the UK average, and anti-social behaviour follows with 8 cases (16.7%), 29% above the national benchmark. These figures suggest a built-up area with significant social interaction spaces—such as community centres or high-traffic public areas—that may contribute to higher rates of disorderly conduct. Seasonal context plays a role, as January’s post-holiday period and reduced retail footfall typically correlate with lower crime rates, yet the surge in theft indicates potential vulnerabilities. The area’s crime profile contrasts with its low shoplifting rate (0.2 per 1,000, 65% below UK average), possibly reflecting limited retail infrastructure or effective local deterrence measures. This mix of trends underscores the need for targeted analysis of specific crime hotspots, particularly in relation to property crimes and public order issues.

January 2026 saw a 100% increase in 'other theft' cases, rising from 3 to 6 incidents, a jump that places this category 96% above the UK average. This surge contrasts sharply with a 50% decline in drug-related crimes, which fell from 2 to 1, a decrease that may reflect seasonal shifts in illicit activity. Anti-social behaviour also dropped by 38.5%, from 13 to 8 cases, though this category remains 29% above the UK average. The most surprising shift, however, was the 100% increase in shoplifting, which rose from 0 to 1 incident despite the area’s rate being 65% below the UK average. This anomaly suggests localized factors—such as a specific retail establishment or transient population movement—may have influenced this category. Meanwhile, public order offences increased by 33.3%, from 3 to 4, though they remain 43% below the UK average. These fluctuations highlight the volatility of crime trends in a built-up area with a mix of residential and commercial zones.

Rishton's crime rate in January 2026 dropped by 14.4% compared to December 2025, falling from 8.4 to 7.2 per 1,000 residents. This decline aligns with typical post-holiday patterns, where reduced retail activity and shorter daylight hours may limit opportunities for certain crimes. On a daily basis, 2 crimes were reported over the 31 days, translating to a local rate of roughly 2 crimes per day—a figure that reflects the built-up area’s relatively compact footprint. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 138 residents, a monthly exposure rate that situates Rishton within the broader context of its population of 6,645. While this rate is 5.9% above the UK average, the sharp month-on-month decline suggests localized factors—such as seasonal shifts or community initiatives—may have temporarily influenced crime trends. The population-scaled perspective underscores that the area’s crime profile remains concentrated in specific categories, with violent and anti-social crimes dominating the landscape.