Dewsbury Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Dewsbury

Dewsbury, with a population of 64,786, reports an overall crime rate of 135.5 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is significantly higher than the national average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a greater incidence of crime compared to many other areas across the UK. The area achieves a safety score of 65 out of 100, which, while above average, is still below the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent activity, Dewsbury has experienced a decreasing crime trend, showing a reduction of 5.4% year-over-year. This positive trend suggests an improvement in crime levels over the past year, offering a more encouraging picture of safety for residents.

Crime Breakdown in Dewsbury

An analysis of crime types in Dewsbury reveals that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 4,091 incidents, or 63.1 per 1,000 residents, representing 46.6% of all crimes. This is followed by anti-social behaviour with 853 reported crimes (13.2 per 1,000), and public order offences with 812 incidents (12.5 per 1,000). These three categories collectively form a significant portion of the area's criminal activity.

Property-related crime, a key concern for residents and homeowners, combines several categories including burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, other theft, and shoplifting. In Dewsbury, the property crime rate stands at 36.2 per 1,000 people per year, which is higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This suggests that residents may face an elevated risk regarding crimes directly impacting their homes and possessions. Specific figures show 282 burglaries (4.3 per 1,000) and 387 vehicle crimes (6.0 per 1,000), highlighting areas where vigilance remains important for local residents.

Crime Trends in Dewsbury

Dewsbury has experienced a positive decreasing crime trend over the past year, with a reduction of 5.4% year-over-year. This indicates a consistent decline in criminal activity. Examining the monthly trend data provides further insight into these patterns. The crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated throughout the year, starting at 12.0 in October 2024 and generally remaining within a similar range, with a dip to 8.9 in February 2025. There was an increase in crime rates during the summer months, with June and July seeing rates of 12.6 and 13.4 per 1,000 respectively, before stabilising around 12.2 and 11.6 per 1,000 towards September 2025. Despite these monthly fluctuations, the overall year-on-year decrease suggests a positive trajectory for crime reduction in Dewsbury.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Dewsbury

Crime patterns in Dewsbury show distinct variations throughout the day, influenced by the rhythms of urban life. During the morning hours (6am - 12pm), theft-related offences are prominent, accounting for 43% of crimes, likely coinciding with the opening of commercial areas and increased public activity. The afternoon (12pm - 6pm) sees continued high levels of theft at 47%, and an increase in burglary to 18%, reflecting peak shopping hours and busy streets. As evening approaches (6pm - 12am), the crime landscape shifts significantly; other crime types become the most frequent at 51%, while theft drops to 19%, suggesting a change in activity as nightlife begins. Night-time (12am - 6am) presents a different risk profile, with vehicle crime peaking at 39% and burglary at 19%, indicating that properties are more vulnerable when residents are typically asleep and streets are quieter. These patterns highlight the importance of tailored vigilance depending on the time of day.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When considering Dewsbury's crime statistics, comparing them to nearby areas provides valuable regional context. Dewsbury, as an urban settlement within Kirklees, has an overall crime rate of 135.5 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average. Nearby Batley, Heckmondwike, Ossett, and Mirfield offer a diverse comparison. Areas like Batley and Heckmondwike, being close in proximity and similar in urban character, may share similar crime profiles. Ossett, a slightly smaller town, might present a different picture, potentially with lower rates of certain crime types. Mirfield, often perceived as more residential, could have a comparatively lower overall crime rate. Understanding these local variations helps residents contextualise Dewsbury's safety score of 65/100 and provides a clearer picture of regional safety.

Protecting Your Property in Dewsbury

Given Dewsbury's property crime rate of 36.2 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the UK average, residents may wish to consider robust home security measures. Traditional security systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred, acting reactively rather than proactively. If you are seeking real protection, consider systems designed to prevent crime before it happens. AI-powered home security operating systems, such as scOS, offer a different approach by detecting threats at your property boundary, not just at the point of entry.

These advanced systems leverage multi-camera intelligence to monitor all areas simultaneously, identifying potential intruders without human error. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly flag suspicious vehicles with fake plates, while pattern learning distinguishes between family, deliveries, and genuine threats, reducing false alarms. The goal is to deter criminals within their crucial 60-second decision-making window. With autonomous responses like activating lights and engaging speakers, scOS aims to destroy the element of surprise, making burglars move on. Investing in professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, moving beyond simply recording a crime to actively preventing it.