Mid Sussex Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Mid Sussex recorded a crime rate of 5.0 per 1,000 residents in August 2023, significantly lower than the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000—a gap of 38.3%. This figure places the area among the safer regions in the country, with crime levels consistently below national benchmarks. The most common crimes were violence and sexual offences (28.1% of total incidents), followed by anti-social behaviour (17.6%) and shoplifting (13.6%). Violence and sexual offences in Mid Sussex were 47% below the UK average, a disparity that may be attributed to the area’s demographic composition, strong community policing, or the presence of educational institutions that foster a more stable environment. Seasonal factors also appear to influence the data: August, a peak holiday month, saw an increase in tourism, which could have indirectly affected crime patterns. While shoplifting rates were 17% above the UK average, this may be linked to the area’s retail activity, particularly in towns like Dorking and Horsham, where high streets attract both locals and visitors. The relatively low rates of burglary and vehicle crime—41% and 39% below the UK average, respectively—suggest that Mid Sussex’s rural and semi-rural character, combined with effective local policing, may contribute to its safer profile. However, the slight uptick in shoplifting could indicate challenges in managing commercial spaces during busy periods, warranting closer attention from local authorities.

August 2023 marked a significant decline in specific crime categories, with possession of weapons falling by 72.7% (from 11 to 3 incidents). This drop, along with a 58.3% reduction in bicycle theft (from 12 to 5), suggests a possible shift in criminal activity or increased community awareness. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category, accounting for 28.1% of all crimes, yet they were 47% below the UK average. This stark contrast to national trends may reflect the area’s demographic profile or local policing strategies. Meanwhile, shoplifting rates in Mid Sussex were 17% above the UK average, a figure that could be linked to the area’s retail presence or seasonal shopping patterns. For residents, the decrease in weapon-related incidents is a concrete indicator of improved safety, particularly in public spaces and during late-night hours.

August 2023 saw a 21.1% decline in Mid Sussex’s crime rate, falling from 6.3 to 5.0 per 1,000 residents. This marks a continued downward trend compared to the previous month, reflecting a shift in crime patterns. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly 26 crimes per day—a figure that, while specific to Mid Sussex, provides a tangible sense of local activity. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 202 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the relatively low crime environment. With a population of 161,755, this rate places Mid Sussex well below the UK average, suggesting a community where residents are less likely to experience crime than the national average. The decrease in violent crime and property crime, combined with a reduction in anti-social behaviour, indicates a broader shift in local dynamics. This could be influenced by seasonal factors, such as the influx of holidaymakers during August, which may have altered patterns of public activity and policing focus.