Lenham and Harrietsham Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

In January 2026, Lenham and Harrietsham recorded a crime rate of 5.2 per 1,000 residents, a figure 23.5% below the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000. This continued underperformance relative to national levels reflects the area’s unique characteristics, including its rural-urban blend and lower population density. The most prevalent crimes were shoplifting (28.6% of total incidents) and violence and sexual offences (20.0%), though the latter category was 60% below the UK average. Seasonal factors likely influenced the crime profile, with January’s post-holiday period and shorter daylight hours reducing opportunities for outdoor crimes. However, shoplifting’s sharp rise—163% above the UK average—suggests ongoing vulnerabilities in retail environments, possibly linked to the area’s proximity to larger urban centres and the presence of high-footfall local stores. The balance between property crimes (60% of total incidents) and violent crime (20%) indicates a crime mix skewed towards non-violent, opportunity-based offences. This pattern is consistent with Lenham and Harrietsham’s status as a smaller built-up area within Maidstone, where community policing and limited commercial activity may contribute to lower overall crime levels. The 23.5% gap from the UK average underscores the need for targeted interventions in retail sectors, even as broader trends point to a generally safer environment compared to national benchmarks.

January 2026 saw a 200% increase in burglary cases, rising from one to three incidents. This surge, though modest in absolute terms, contrasts with a 56.3% drop in violence and sexual offences, which fell from 16 to 7. The category of 'other crime' also saw a 100% jump, reflecting a shift in the crime mix. Shoplifting remained the most prevalent offence, accounting for 28.6% of all incidents and 163% above the UK average. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour dropped by 50%, from six to three cases, a trend consistent with the post-holiday lull in public spaces. These fluctuations suggest a dynamic local environment where retail-focused crimes and property offences remain key concerns, while violent crime appears to have decreased. Residents may find the 163% disparity in shoplifting rates particularly noteworthy, indicating a need for continued vigilance in retail areas.

The crime rate in Lenham and Harrietsham fell by 2.6% month-on-month, from 5.3 to 5.2 per 1,000 residents in January 2026. This decline aligns with the post-holiday period, which typically sees reduced retail footfall and fewer outdoor activities. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 194 residents, a figure that contextualises the scale of incidents within the local population. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately one crime per day, a rate that remains consistent with historical patterns for this time of year. When compared to the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000, Lenham and Harrietsham’s rate remains 23.5% lower, highlighting a persistent trend of lower-than-average crime levels. This contrast with national figures may reflect the area’s relatively small size, lower population density, and proximity to rural zones, which often correlate with reduced opportunities for certain types of crime.