Dorking Crime Rate July 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Dorking’s crime profile in July 2024, accounting for 45.9% of all reported incidents. At 8.0 per 1,000, the area’s overall crime rate was 4.8% below the UK average, a consistent trend for a built-up area within Mole Valley. The dominance of violent crime—3.7 per 1,000—reflects a pattern seen in towns with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, where summer tourism and festivals may contribute to heightened social interactions. Anti-social behaviour and public order offences also rose above the UK average, with public order incidents at 0.9 per 1,000 (41% above UK levels), likely linked to the area’s proximity to event venues and outdoor attractions. Seasonal factors, including the peak of the tourism season and school holidays, likely played a role in shaping this month’s crime picture. While property crimes such as shoplifting and burglary were lower than national averages, the sharp increase in burglary—now at 0.3 per 1,000—suggests a need for targeted local measures. The data aligns with Dorking’s character as a commuter hub and tourist destination, where seasonal fluctuations and transient populations influence crime dynamics. This balance between stability and periodic spikes underscores the importance of community-focused policing and public awareness campaigns during high-traffic periods.

July 2024 marked a sharp rise in burglary, with a 400% increase from one to five incidents, and a 300% surge in criminal damage and arson, rising from two to eight. These spikes may partly explain the 11.8% monthly increase in the overall crime rate. Conversely, vehicle crime dropped by 71.4%, from seven to two, likely reflecting reduced commuter traffic during school holidays. Violence and sexual offences, at 3.7 per 1,000, were 30% above the UK average, a stark contrast to categories like vehicle crime, which were 78% below the national rate. Residents may find the 41% above UK average for public order offences particularly noteworthy, as these often occur in areas with high foot traffic, such as Dorking’s town centre. The data also reveals a 100% increase in bicycle theft, suggesting a need for heightened awareness in local parks and event spaces.

Dorking's crime rate in July 2024 rose to 8.0 per 1,000, an 11.8% increase from 7.2 per 1,000 in June. This upward trend contrasts with the area’s overall 4.8% below the UK average. Locally, the daily crime count averaged 4 crimes per day over the month, translating to a monthly exposure of one reported crime for roughly every 124 residents. While this figure is lower than the UK-wide average, it highlights the need for continued vigilance in a community that, despite its relatively low crime rate, experiences fluctuations tied to seasonal activity. The population context—16,544 residents—means each individual is statistically less likely to be directly affected than in areas with higher rates, but local patterns remain distinct. The comparison to previous months underscores the impact of transient factors such as tourism and festivals, which may temporarily elevate certain crime categories.