Dorking Crime Rate April 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Dorking’s crime rate in April 2024 stood at 7.9 per 1,000 residents, placing it 2.6% above the UK average of 7.7. This slight edge over national figures reflects the area’s unique characteristics as a built-up town within Mole Valley, where urban density and seasonal activity intersect. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences (33.9% of total incidents), anti-social behaviour (16.9%), and shoplifting (13.9%). These patterns align with the town’s mix of residential and commercial areas, where public spaces and retail hubs may contribute to higher rates of anti-social behaviour and property crime. April’s Easter period and spring weather likely amplified outdoor activity, potentially increasing opportunities for shoplifting and other thefts. However, the data also reveals notable contrasts: while violence and anti-social behaviour exceeded UK averages, criminal damage and arson fell 15% below national levels, due to improved community policing or seasonal factors. The balance between property and violent crime is also noteworthy — property crimes accounted for 48 of 130 total incidents, while violent crimes numbered 44, suggesting a relatively even distribution between these categories. This equilibrium may reflect the area’s dual role as a commuter hub and a town with active social spaces, where both types of crime are influenced by daily rhythms and local demographics. As the season transitions from spring to summer, continued monitoring of these trends will be essential to understanding how shifting patterns might evolve.

April 2024 saw a dramatic 500% increase in shoplifting, rising from three to 18 incidents. This surge, coupled with a 175% rise in other theft, suggests heightened activity in retail or public spaces. Conversely, burglary dropped by 85.7%, from seven to one incident, potentially reflecting improved security measures or seasonal factors. Violence and sexual offences remained a major concern, with a rate of 2.7 per 1,000 — 5% above the UK average — while anti-social behaviour also exceeded national levels by 7%. The sharp contrast between rising property crimes and falling violent crimes highlights shifting dynamics, possibly influenced by Easter-related foot traffic or changes in community engagement. Residents should note that shoplifting rates are now 64% higher than the UK average, indicating a localised challenge requiring targeted interventions.

Dorking’s crime rate in April 2024 rose to 7.9 per 1,000 residents, an 8.4% increase from the previous month’s 7.3 per 1,000. This places the area slightly above the UK average. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately four reported crimes per day, a figure that reflects local patterns rather than national trends. Over the course of the month, one crime was reported for every 127 residents, a monthly aggregate that contextualises the frequency of incidents within the population. This rate is consistent with the area’s character as a built-up town within Mole Valley, where urban density and seasonal activity may influence crime exposure. While the increase is modest, it underscores the need for ongoing monitoring, particularly as April’s Easter period and spring weather drive higher foot traffic in public spaces.