Lichfield Crime Rate

Lichfield demonstrates a crime rate of 64.3 incidents per 1,000 residents over the 12-month period from February 2025 to January 2026. This figure is notably lower than the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, reflecting a relatively safer environment. However, crime rates have been increasing by 6.1% year-on-year, indicating a need for continued vigilance and proactive measures. Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and vehicle crime are the most prevalent concerns, highlighting specific areas where residents should be particularly aware of their surroundings and personal safety.

Lichfield, a historic cathedral city and local authority district, presents a unique blend of urban and rural characteristics. The area’s demographics are relatively stable, with a mix of families, retirees, and a growing student population due to the presence of Lichfield Cathedral School and South Staffordshire College. The city centre benefits from tourism and retail, while surrounding villages maintain a more residential character. The mix of residential areas, local businesses, and the cathedral precinct contribute to the overall crime profile. Proximity to major transport links, while beneficial for connectivity, can also increase opportunities for crime. A significant portion of the population lives within the Lichfield urban area, which contributes to higher density and potential for anti-social behaviour.

While Lichfield boasts a lower overall crime rate than the UK average, certain crime categories are of particular concern. Violence and sexual offences represent the largest proportion of reported crimes, accounting for 2804 incidents, a rate of 25.1 per 1,000 residents, which is 22% below the UK average. Vehicle crime also presents a notable issue, with 632 incidents recorded, translating to a rate of 5.7 per 1,000 – 20% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour is another prevalent concern, with 1010 incidents reported. Overall, property crime, encompassing burglary, theft, and criminal damage, accounts for 21.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is below the UK average. The distribution of these crimes varies across different areas within the district, with Fazeley experiencing a significantly higher crime rate than Whittington.

Overall crime in Lichfield is on an upward trend, increasing by 6.1% year-on-year from February 2025 to January 2026. While some crime types, such as other theft, have decreased, the increases in Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and vehicle crime are concerning. Monthly data reveals fluctuations, with a peak in March 2025 (5.9 per 1,000) and a low in February 2025 (4.1 per 1,000), suggesting that while crime is increasing overall, there are periods of relative stability.

Compared to neighbouring local authorities, Lichfield generally exhibits a lower crime rate. Tamworth and Cannock Chase have crime rates of 81.0 and 82.7 per 1,000 respectively, while East Staffordshire reports a rate of 75.1 per 1,000. Walsall, however, has a considerably higher rate at 99.5 per 1,000, underscoring the variability in crime levels across the region. South Derbyshire stands out as the safest neighbouring authority, with a rate of 63.0 per 1,000.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. However, reading crime statistics like those for Lichfield, where Vehicle crime is slightly above the UK average (5.7 per 1,000), highlights the need for proactive protection. scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, takes a different approach. Instead of simply recording, scOS uses AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary – fake number plates are instantly flagged, and the system learns your family’s routines to identify genuine risks. The visible presence of scOS can be a powerful deterrent, making that critical 60-second decision for potential intruders: move on.

How To Keep Safe in Lichfield

Given the prevalence of Vehicle crime, residents should ensure their vehicles are parked in well-lit areas and secured with appropriate locks. Being mindful of your surroundings, particularly during evening hours, is also crucial due to the increase in Violence and sexual offences. Report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly and consider joining neighbourhood watch schemes to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility. Finally, ensure your home is well-lit and secured to deter potential burglaries, remembering the burglary rate of 2.8 per 1,000.