Heckmondwike Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Heckmondwike

Heckmondwike, with a population of 11,619, reports an overall crime rate of 103.9 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is 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 74 out of 100, which is respectable, though still below the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent activity, Heckmondwike has experienced a stable crime trend, showing a minor decrease of 5.0% year-over-year. This stability suggests that while crime levels are consistent, there has been a slight positive shift in the past year, offering a nuanced picture of safety for residents.

Crime Breakdown in Heckmondwike

An analysis of crime types in Heckmondwike reveals that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 533 incidents, or 45.9 per 1,000 residents, representing 44.2% of all crimes. This is followed by public order offences with 126 reported crimes (10.8 per 1,000), and anti-social behaviour with 115 incidents (9.9 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 Heckmondwike, the property crime rate stands at 28.5 per 1,000 people per year, which is notably lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This suggests that residents may face a comparatively lower risk regarding crimes directly impacting their homes and possessions. Specific figures show 51 burglaries (4.4 per 1,000) and 74 vehicle crimes (6.4 per 1,000), highlighting areas where vigilance remains important for local residents.

Crime Trends in Heckmondwike

Heckmondwike has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a slight decrease of 5.0% year-over-year. This indicates a consistent, albeit gently declining, level of 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 9.9 in October 2024 and generally remaining within a similar range, with a dip to 7.4 in August 2025. There were increases in crime rates during May 2025, reaching 10.5 per 1,000, and slight increases in other months. Despite these monthly fluctuations, the overall year-on-year stability suggests a largely consistent crime environment, with no significant escalations or drastic improvements in the immediate past year.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Heckmondwike

Crime patterns in Heckmondwike show distinct variations throughout the day, influenced by the rhythms of community life. During the morning hours (6am - 12pm), theft-related offences are prominent, accounting for 45% of crimes, alongside vehicle crime at 19%, likely coinciding with the opening of commercial areas and increased public activity. The afternoon (12pm - 6pm) sees continued high levels of theft at 51%, and an increase in burglary to 19%, 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 44%, while vehicle crime remains high at 20%, suggesting a change in activity as residents return home. Night-time (12am - 6am) presents a different risk profile, with vehicle crime peaking at 45% 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 Heckmondwike's crime statistics, comparing them to nearby areas provides valuable regional context. Heckmondwike, as an urban settlement within Kirklees, has an overall crime rate of 103.9 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average. Nearby Liversedge, Batley, Cleckheaton, and Moor Top offer a diverse comparison. Areas like Liversedge, Batley and Cleckheaton, being close in proximity and similar in urban character, may share similar crime profiles. Moor Top, a smaller settlement, might typically experience lower crime rates. Understanding these local variations helps residents contextualise Heckmondwike's safety score of 74/100 and provides a clearer picture of regional safety.

Protecting Your Property in Heckmondwike

Given Heckmondwike's property crime rate of 28.5 per 1,000 people, which is lower than the UK average, residents may still 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.