Leatherhead Crime Rate November 2023 | Monthly Statistics

In November 2023, Leatherhead’s crime rate of 8.3 per 1,000 residents placed it 10.7% above the UK average, a figure that underscores the area’s distinct profile within a rural district. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences (27 incidents), followed by shoplifting (19) and criminal damage and arson (13). This mix highlights a tension between personal safety concerns and economic crimes, a balance that may reflect the area’s dual role as a commuter hub and a small town with retail and residential zones. The seasonal context of November—marked by Bonfire Night, Black Friday, and the transition to darker evenings—likely influenced patterns, with shoplifting and vehicle crime both showing notable spikes. While violent crime rates were 15% below the UK average, property crime rates, particularly shoplifting, far exceeded national benchmarks. This suggests that local factors, such as the presence of high-street retail outlets and the proximity to larger urban centres, may play a role in shaping the area’s crime profile. The contrast between Leatherhead’s above-average overall rate and its relatively low violent crime rates indicates a need to focus on property crime prevention strategies, especially during peak shopping periods.

November 2023 saw a stark shift in crime dynamics, with property crimes (52) outpacing violent crimes (27) by a significant margin. This imbalance suggests a focus on economic crimes, potentially influenced by Black Friday shopping activity and the approach of winter holidays. Vehicle crime surged by 133.3%, rising from three to seven incidents, a jump that may be linked to increased vehicle idling in residential areas during colder weather. Meanwhile, shoplifting rates remained exceptionally high, 191% above the UK average, a figure that likely reflects the retail activity tied to November’s commercial calendar. Public order offences fell by 63.2%, due to reduced public gatherings as the month progressed. The decrease in drug-related crimes by two-thirds may indicate seasonal shifts in illicit activity patterns.

Leatherhead's crime rate in November 2023 fell to 8.3 per 1,000 residents, a 25.4% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 11.1. This decline aligns with seasonal patterns, as November typically sees reduced outdoor activity compared to summer months. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately three reported crimes per day, a figure that reflects the pace of incidents in a built-up area within a rural district. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 121 residents, a monthly exposure rate that contextualises the scale of incidents against the local population. This rate is lower than the 1-in-100 average seen in larger urban centres, highlighting Leatherhead’s relatively lower crime density despite its above-average overall rate. The drop from October may also reflect the end of the university term, which often correlates with reduced foot traffic and fewer opportunities for certain types of crime in nearby commuter areas.