Chatham Crime Rate July 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominate Chatham's crime profile in July 2025, accounting for 32.9% of all reported crimes — the highest share of any category. With an overall crime rate of 12.4 per 1,000 residents, the area is 44.2% above the UK average, a gap that reflects both the scale of violent incidents and the relative underperformance of other categories in reducing crime. The dominance of violence — 334 cases at 4.1 per 1,000 — is 35% above the UK average, suggesting a combination of factors including seasonal demographics and local socio-economic conditions. Anti-social behaviour follows closely, at 26.9% of total crimes (3.3 per 1,000), which is 113% above the UK average. This may be partly explained by the summer tourist season, when the population swells and public spaces become more crowded, potentially exacerbating conflicts. The third most common category, criminal damage and arson (9.6% of total crimes), is 97% above the UK average, a figure that could be linked to both intentional acts and the increased presence of transient populations. While shoplifting and other theft remain significant, they are comparatively lower than the UK average, indicating that retail-focused crime may be better managed in Chatham. This summer's crime picture, shaped by the interplay of tourism, festivals, and local community dynamics, highlights both challenges and areas where targeted interventions may be most effective.

July 2025 saw a stark 51.6% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 31 to 47 incidents. This jump, though not uncommon in summer months, may partly reflect the influx of tourists and the increased use of public car parks. Anti-social behaviour also rose sharply, up 34.5% from 203 to 273 cases — a figure 113% above the UK average. This surge aligns with the peak of the tourist season and the summer festival calendar, which brings larger crowds to public spaces. Conversely, robbery and burglary both declined, with robbery dropping 27.3% to 8 cases and burglary falling 25.0% to 18 incidents. These decreases, while welcome, remain below the UK average for robbery (9% below) and above for burglary (26% below). The most extreme deviation from national trends is anti-social behaviour, which is 113% above the UK average, suggesting a unique challenge in managing public disorder during high-traffic periods.

Chatham's crime rate in July 2025 rose to 12.4 per 1,000 residents, an 8.0% increase from June's 11.5 per 1,000. This places the area 44.2% above the UK average, a disparity that persists despite local efforts. On a daily basis, 33 crimes were reported in July — a figure that, while not alarmingly high, reflects consistent activity across the built-up area. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for every 81 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the density of incidents in a relatively compact urban environment. This ratio is particularly notable given Chatham's population of 82,023, suggesting that crime is distributed unevenly across neighbourhoods. While the overall rate is concerning, the drop in burglary and robbery compared to previous months indicates some areas may be seeing improved security measures or natural deterrents. The contrast between rising anti-social behaviour and falling property crime highlights shifting patterns in local criminal activity.