Newhaven’s crime rate in September 2024 stood at 9.5 per 1,000, placing the area 23.4% above the UK average of 7.7 per 1,000. This figure, while not unprecedented, signals a continued challenge in maintaining public safety. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences, which accounted for 41.9% of all incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (16.9%) and shoplifting (8.1%). These patterns align with the seasonal context of September, a time when the area experiences a surge in student populations due to the start of the academic year and the return of university freshers. The increase in violent crime may be partly explained by the social dynamics of this period, as heightened activity in public spaces and late-night gatherings could contribute to higher incidents. Anti-social behaviour, though lower than the peak in August, still remained elevated compared to the UK average, suggesting that community tensions or environmental factors may be at play. Shoplifting and criminal damage also exceeded UK rates, likely driven by the retail activity and foot traffic typical of a coastal town with a mix of tourist and local populations. These trends underscore the need for targeted policing and community engagement to address the specific risks associated with this time of year. The data also highlights a shift in the crime mix, with violent offences becoming more prominent than property crimes, which may reflect broader societal changes or localized pressures. As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, particularly in areas frequented by students and tourists, and to report any suspicious activity to local authorities.