Medway Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Medway’s January 2026 crime rate of 7.9 per 1,000 residents places the area 16.2% above the UK average, a persistent disparity that reflects broader regional trends. The most significant category is violence and sexual offences, which account for 40.5% of all crimes reported. This is closely followed by anti-social behaviour (17.6%) and criminal damage and arson (7.6%), both of which exceed UK averages by 51% and 25% respectively. January’s post-holiday context may partly explain the seasonal pattern, with reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours typically linked to lower outdoor crime. However, the prominence of violent crime suggests factors beyond seasonal effects, such as socio-economic pressures or community dynamics. The area’s crime profile appears to be shaped by its mix of urban and semi-rural settings, where concentrated populations in certain areas may drive higher rates of anti-social behaviour and property crime. While shoplifting rates are slightly below the UK average, other property crimes like burglary and vehicle crime show mixed comparisons, with burglary at 29% below the UK rate but vehicle crime 19% below. These variations highlight the complexity of Medway’s crime profile, where localised factors may override broader national trends. The continued focus on violent crime and anti-social behaviour underscores the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas.

The most dramatic month-on-month change occurred in robbery, which rose by 65% from 20 to 33 incidents. This spike, combined with a 26.1% increase in possession of weapons, suggests a potential shift in criminal activity patterns. Meanwhile, theft from the person dropped by 56.3% (from 16 to 7), possibly linked to reduced foot traffic in retail areas during January’s post-holiday period. Violence and sexual offences remain the most prevalent category, accounting for 40.5% of all crimes and 28% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour, at 17.6% of total crimes, is also 51% above the UK average, reflecting ongoing challenges in community safety. Shoplifting, while still a concern, is 12% below the UK average, indicating a possible focus on other forms of property crime in the area.

Medway's crime rate in January 2026 fell by 2.1% compared to December 2025, dropping from 8.1 to 7.9 per 1,000 residents. This slight decline contrasts with the 16.2% above the UK average, which remains a consistent challenge for the area. On a daily basis, 75 crimes were reported across Medway’s 31 days, translating to roughly one crime every 126 residents over the month. This monthly exposure figure highlights the persistent presence of crime in the community, even as rates fluctuate. The population context shows that Medway’s 292,655 residents face a higher-than-average crime burden, particularly in categories like violence and anti-social behaviour. While the overall rate has dipped slightly, the relative position compared to the UK remains elevated, suggesting systemic factors that may require targeted interventions.