Medway Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Medway's crime rate in January 2026 was 7.9 per 1,000 residents, placing it 19.7% above the UK average of 6.6 per 1,000. The most significant category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 40.5% of all crimes (938 incidents) and 3.2 per 1,000 residents. This rate is 31% above the UK average, highlighting a persistent challenge in addressing violent crime within the area. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, making up 17.6% of total crimes (408 incidents) at a rate of 1.4 per 1,000, 54% above the UK average. The seasonal context of January—a post-holiday period marked by reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours—may contribute to patterns observed in property crimes. For instance, shoplifting increased by 21.5% compared to December, potentially linked to fewer shoppers and altered retail operations. However, the overall crime profile suggests that local factors, such as the area's urban density and socioeconomic dynamics, likely play a role in sustaining higher-than-average rates. These trends underscore the need for targeted interventions in high-risk categories while considering the broader seasonal and demographic influences shaping Medway's crime picture.

January 2026 saw a dramatic 65% increase in robbery cases, rising from 20 to 33 incidents. This sharp rise contrasts with a 56.3% drop in theft from the person, which fell from 16 to 7. The shift in crime mix highlights a notable trend: while violent crimes remained the most prevalent category (40.5% of total incidents), property-related offences such as shoplifting rose by 21.5% (from 130 to 158). Violence and sexual offences in Medway were 31% above the UK average, with 3.2 per 1,000 residents affected, compared to the national rate of 2.4 per 1,000. Anti-social behaviour also stood out, with a rate of 1.4 per 1,000 (17.6% of total crimes), 54% above the UK average. These figures suggest that local factors—such as seasonal transitions or community dynamics—may be influencing patterns, though further analysis is needed to confirm direct links.

Medway's crime rate in January 2026 stood at 7.9 per 1,000 residents, a 2.1% decrease from the previous month's 8.1 per 1,000. This slight decline suggests a stabilisation in overall crime trends. above the UK average. Daily crime activity averaged 75 incidents per day, reflecting a persistent level of criminal activity despite the month-on-month dip. Over the course of January, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 126 residents, underscoring the frequency of incidents within the local population. This monthly exposure figure highlights the need for continued vigilance, particularly in areas where crime rates are higher than national averages. The population context further illustrates that Medway's crime profile, while showing minor reductions, continues to demand attention relative to broader UK trends.