Hassocks and Hurstpierpoint Crime Rate January 2024 | Monthly Statistics

For a population of 14,095 residents, Hassocks and Hurstpierpoint recorded 73 crimes in January 2024, equating to a crime rate of 5.2 per 1,000 people. This figure places the area 29.7% below the UK average of 7.4 per 1,000, reflecting a consistently lower crime profile compared to national trends. The most common crimes were violence and sexual offences (35 incidents, 48% of total), followed by public order offences (9 incidents) and anti-social behaviour (7 incidents). The dominance of violent crime contrasts with the UK average, where property crimes typically dominate. Seasonal factors likely influence these patterns, as January’s shorter days and post-holiday lull may reduce retail activity, potentially limiting opportunities for theft but not necessarily curbing interpersonal conflicts. The area’s character as a built-up district within Mid Sussex—likely a mix of residential and commercial zones—may contribute to the concentration of violent incidents, though the absence of major transport hubs or nightlife areas suggests localised factors rather than broader urban trends. The lower-than-average rates for anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime further indicate a relatively stable community, though the sharp rise in criminal damage and arson compared to previous months warrants attention.

January 2024 saw significant fluctuations in crime types, with criminal damage and arson surging by 400% (from 1 to 5 incidents) and vehicle crime doubling (from 1 to 3). Anti-social behaviour also rose sharply, increasing by 133% (from 3 to 7), though this was offset by declines in shoplifting (-50%, from 4 to 2) and drug-related offences (-50%, from 2 to 1). The violent crime category remained high compared to the UK average, with violence and sexual offences at 2.5 per 1,000 (4% below the UK rate of 2.6 per 1,000). Public order offences were 25% above the UK average (0.5 vs 0.6 per 1,000), suggesting localised tensions that may not align with national patterns. The sharp increase in criminal damage and arson could be linked to January’s colder weather, which might drive indoor activities or exacerbate disputes in shared spaces. Residents should be aware of these spikes, particularly in areas with public housing or community centres where such incidents are more likely to occur.

The crime rate in January 2024 (5.2 per 1,000) marked a 26.0% increase from December’s 4.1 per 1,000, though it still remains well below the UK average. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 193 residents, a figure that contextualises the scale of incidents within the local population. Daily crime counts averaged roughly two incidents per day, a modest figure that aligns with the area’s lower-than-average profile. When compared to the previous month, the rise in violence and property-related crimes suggests a seasonal shift, possibly tied to January’s post-holiday period and shorter daylight hours. The population context is critical here: with 14,095 residents, the 73 recorded crimes represent a manageable volume, but the distribution across categories—particularly the dominance of violent crime—highlights specific vulnerabilities. While the daily rate may seem low, the concentrated nature of incidents in certain areas (e.g. public spaces for anti-social behaviour, residential zones for criminal damage) means residents should remain vigilant. This monthly exposure figure, though not alarming, underscores the importance of localised crime prevention efforts tailored to the area’s unique dynamics.