Fordingbridge Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Fordingbridge's crime profile in January 2026 reveals a distinct balance of crime types, with violence and sexual offences dominating at 28.6% of all reported incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour and public order offences. This mix contrasts with the UK average, where violence and sexual offences typically account for around 2.5 per 1,000 residents (Fordingbridge's rate was 1.1 per 1,000, 56% below). The area's low overall crime rate (4.0 per 1,000) is 41.2% below the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000, reflecting its status as a small built-up area within the New Forest, where rural characteristics may limit opportunities for certain crimes. Seasonal factors appear to influence patterns: January's post-holiday period, reduced retail footfall, and shorter days likely contribute to lower property crime rates compared to busier months. However, the dominance of violent offences suggests that local dynamics—such as community interactions or limited policing resources—may play a role. Public order offences (0.6 per 1,000) and burglary (0.4 per 1,000) are both above UK averages, indicating areas for targeted intervention. The absence of major property crimes like vehicle theft (0.2 per 1,000, 46% below UK average) further underscores the area's unique profile, where rural isolation and limited commercial activity may suppress certain crime types.

January 2026 saw sharp increases in anti-social behaviour (+200%) and burglary (+100%), though these remain below the UK average for burglary (0.3 per 1,000). Violence and sexual offences fell by 40% from the previous month, a decline consistent with post-holiday lulls in such crimes. Public order offences, however, remained 43% above the UK average (0.4 per 1,000), suggesting local tensions or specific community dynamics. Criminal damage and arson dropped by two-thirds, potentially linked to reduced outdoor activity during colder weather. These fluctuations highlight the combination of seasonal factors and local crime patterns, with some categories defying national trends. Residents may find the 200% rise in anti-social behaviour particularly noteworthy, as it indicates a shift in community-reported incidents.

Fordingbridge's crime rate in January 2026 (4.0 per 1,000 residents) marks a 19.2% decrease from the previous month's rate of 5.0 per 1,000. This reduction aligns with typical January patterns in rural areas, where colder weather and shorter daylight hours may limit outdoor activity and associated crime. Daily crime statistics show an average of one reported crime per day, a figure that, while low, reflects the area's small population. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 250 residents—a monthly exposure rate that underscores the relatively low frequency of incidents in this built-up area. This figure contrasts with the UK average, though direct comparisons are not available for daily or monthly exposure. The population-scaled perspective highlights that even minor fluctuations in crime numbers can have noticeable local impacts, particularly in communities where crime rates are already below national benchmarks.