Downham Market Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

February 2026 marked a continuation of Downham Market's consistently lower crime profile compared to the UK average, with a recorded rate of 4.6 crimes per 1,000 residents — 28.1% below the national average of 6.4. This pattern aligns with the area's character as a relatively small built-up area within a rural district, where community cohesion and limited urban density may contribute to reduced opportunities for certain crimes. The most prevalent crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 31.8% of all reported incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour at 19.1%. The rate of violence and sexual offences in Downham Market was 35% below the UK average, a figure consistent with the area's lower population density and potentially stronger community policing presence. Seasonal factors likely played a role in shaping these figures; February's typically low outdoor activity and pre-spring lull may have reduced opportunities for public order offences and vehicle-related crimes. However, the persistence of violent crime as a significant category suggests the need for targeted interventions in local hotspots, such as the town centre or other high-traffic areas. The relatively low rate of property crimes compared to the UK average — particularly shoplifting at 31% below the national figure — may reflect the smaller retail footprint of Downham Market compared to larger urban centres. These figures illustrate an area where crime prevention efforts have had measurable success, though the continued presence of violent crime highlights areas for further focus.

February 2026 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with shoplifting and burglary each doubling from the previous month — a 100% increase in both categories. This spike in property-related crimes may be linked to seasonal transitions, as the pre-spring period often sees increased foot traffic in local retail areas. Conversely, public order offences fell by two-thirds (66.7%), likely reflecting the reduced social activity typical of winter months. The area's violence and sexual offences rate remained 35% below the UK average, a consistent trend that contrasts with the 60% above average rate for burglary — a category where local rates were higher than national figures. This divergence highlights the combination of local factors and broader national trends; while the town's smaller size may reduce opportunities for violent crime, its limited residential density could leave homes more exposed to burglary. One concrete data point for residents is the 31.8% share of total crimes attributed to violence and sexual offences, underscoring the need for targeted safety measures in high-risk areas. The 100% increase in vehicle crime, though small in absolute terms, may signal emerging trends that warrant closer monitoring.

The crime rate in February 2026 rose by 4.8% compared to the previous month's rate of 4.3 per 1,000 residents, though it remains well below the UK average. Locally, this translates to roughly 2 crimes reported per day in Downham Market, a figure that reflects the area's small population of 13,836 residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 220 residents — a monthly exposure rate that is significantly lower than the UK average, which typically sees a higher frequency of incidents per capita. This context is critical for residents: while the absolute number of crimes may seem low, the 60% above-average rate for burglary suggests vulnerabilities in home security that could affect smaller communities. The population-scaled perspective also highlights the importance of maintaining current crime prevention initiatives, as even modest increases in specific categories can have measurable impacts in a compact built-up area. Comparing the daily crime context to larger urban centres reveals the stark contrast between Downham Market's low density and the higher crime concentrations typically found in more densely populated regions. These figures reinforce the value of local policing strategies that have helped sustain the area's historically lower crime profile despite the recent uptick in property-related offences.