Hythe and Dibden Purlieu Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences accounted for the largest share of reported crime in Hythe and Dibden Purlieu during August 2023, making up 36.2% of the total 127 incidents recorded. This category’s rate of 2.3 per 1,000 residents was 13% below the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000, a trend that may reflect the area’s character as a built-up zone within a predominantly rural region. The presence of a significant anti-social behaviour rate—17 incidents, or 13.4% of total crimes—further illustrates the mix of urban and rural influences, with such offences often linked to local social dynamics and land use patterns. Shoplifting, at 15 incidents (11.8% of total), was 17% above the UK average of 0.6 per 1,000, possibly tied to the area’s retail presence or seasonal tourism activity. August’s position as a peak holiday month likely contributed to fluctuations in crime, with empty homes increasing burglary risks despite the overall low rate of 0.1 per 1,000 for that category. The area’s overall crime rate of 6.2 per 1,000—23.5% below the UK average—suggests a combination of geographic factors, community engagement, and local policing priorities that may help mitigate crime in this small urban enclave within the New Forest.

August 2023 saw a 500% increase in drug-related offences, rising from 1 to 6 incidents—a sharp contrast to the previous month’s levels. This surge, though still below the UK average of 0.2 per 1,000, raises questions about local factors influencing such a dramatic shift. Meanwhile, possession of weapons and bicycle theft each doubled from July, highlighting emerging trends in specific categories. Conversely, other crime and robbery both fell sharply, with robbery dropping by two-thirds to 1 incident. Anti-social behaviour remained well below the UK average, at 44% lower than the national rate of 1.4 per 1,000. The area’s violence and sexual offences rate of 2.3 per 1,000 was 13% below the UK average, a consistent trend that may reflect the community’s demographic profile or effective local policing strategies.

Hythe and Dibden Purlieu's crime rate in August 2023 fell to 6.2 per 1,000 residents, an 11.1% decline from July’s 7.0 per 1,000. This downward trend contrasts with the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000, positioning the area 23.5% below the national benchmark. Daily crime statistics show 4 reported incidents per day on average, a figure that translates to roughly one crime for every 161 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate highlights a relatively low frequency of crime, though variations in local demographics and land use may influence perceptions of safety. The population context further underscores that 20,385 residents collectively experience a crime rate well below the UK average, suggesting a combination of community factors and geographic characteristics that likely contribute to this pattern.