Meltham Crime Rate July 2024 | Monthly Statistics

In July 2024, Meltham, a built-up area within Kirklees, recorded 58 crimes across its population of 9,128 residents, resulting in a crime rate of 6.4 per 1,000 individuals. This figure places the area 23.8% below the UK average of 8.4 per 1,000, a consistent trend for a small urban community with a relatively low baseline of criminal activity. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences (27 incidents), followed by anti-social behaviour (10) and public order offences (7). These patterns are influenced by Meltham's character as a mixed-use area with retail spaces, social hubs, and recreational zones that attract both local residents and visitors during the summer months. The seasonal context of July—characterised by school holidays, festivals, and increased tourism—likely contributes to the higher volume of violent and anti-social incidents, as well as the sharp rise in criminal damage and arson. Despite the overall lower crime rate compared to the UK, the area's violent crime category remains slightly above the national average, suggesting a need for targeted interventions in high-risk zones. Meanwhile, shoplifting and other theft offences fell significantly below UK levels, indicating effective local deterrence measures or a lower concentration of high-value retail targets compared to larger urban centres.

July 2024 saw a 400% increase in criminal damage and arson, jumping from one to five incidents. This surge aligns with the summer season, where open spaces and outdoor events may create opportunities for such acts. Anti-social behaviour also rose dramatically by 233%, with reports increasing from three to ten, likely linked to the area's bustling summer activities and festivals. Shoplifting incidents doubled compared to June, reflecting the impact of tourist activity and retail footfall during peak season. Violent crimes remained 5% above the UK average, with 27 incidents reported, though this was offset by significant declines in other theft (down 50%) and public order offences (down 12.5%). These fluctuations illustrate the dynamic nature of crime patterns in Meltham during a month marked by high visitor numbers and extended daylight hours.

Meltham's crime rate in July 2024 rose to 6.4 per 1,000 residents, a 15.9% increase from June's 5.5 per 1,000. This translates to roughly two crimes reported daily in the built-up area, a figure that highlights the frequency of incidents relative to the local population of 9,128. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for every 157 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the scale of incidents in a relatively small community. While the daily crime count appears modest, the monthly aggregate reveals a consistent presence of criminal activity that aligns with seasonal factors such as extended daylight hours and increased foot traffic during summer festivals. The population-scaled perspective shows that Meltham's crime rate remains significantly below the UK average, but the upward trend from June suggests a need for continued monitoring of local patterns.