Marchwood Crime Rate October 2023 | Monthly Statistics

In October 2023, Marchwood’s crime rate of 3.1 per 1,000 residents remained 61.3% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000, reflecting a long-standing pattern of low crime in this built-up area within the New Forest. The crime profile was dominated by violent offences, which accounted for 66.7% of all incidents (12 cases), compared to property crimes (5 cases). This stark imbalance between violent and property crime—violent crimes making up 78% of total incidents—suggests a shift in criminal activity patterns that may be influenced by seasonal factors. October’s darker evenings and Halloween events likely contributed to increased visibility of violent incidents, though the area’s rural-urban character, with limited nightlife and lower population density, may also temper the severity of such crimes. Criminal damage and arson, though a smaller proportion of total crime, saw a 200% increase from October 2022, linked to seasonal disruptions or local events. Meanwhile, public order offences fell sharply, aligning with the conclusion of Halloween-related activities. The overall crime rate, while rising slightly from the previous month, remains exceptionally low by UK standards, highlighting the unique safety profile of Marchwood within its regional context.

Violent crimes surged by 140%, rising from five to 12 incidents, while criminal damage and arson increased 200% (from one to three). This sharp shift in crime mix—violent crimes now comprising 66.7% of all incidents—contrasts with property crimes, which fell to 27.8% of the total. Violence and sexual offences in Marchwood remain 22% below the UK average (2.1 vs 2.7 per 1,000), suggesting local factors may temper the severity of violent crime despite the spike. Public order offences, however, dropped 66.7% (from three to one), potentially reflecting seasonal changes as Halloween events wound down. For residents, the 140% increase in violent crimes highlights a need for vigilance during evening hours, particularly in areas with higher foot traffic.

Marchwood's crime rate in October 2023 rose 38.7% from the previous month, increasing from 2.2 to 3.1 per 1,000 residents. This shift, while notable, remains 61.3% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. Daily crime data shows one incident reported per day on average—a local figure that contextualises the pace of criminal activity in this built-up area within the New Forest. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 325 residents, a monthly exposure figure that places Marchwood among the lowest crime areas in the UK. With a population of 5,851, this suggests that most residents are unlikely to encounter crime directly. The population-scaled perspective reinforces that Marchwood’s crime profile remains markedly safer than national benchmarks, even as local fluctuations occur.