Barnstaple Crime Rate April 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Barnstaple's crime rate in April 2024 stood at 7.8 per 1,000 residents, placing it 1.3% above the UK average of 7.7. This figure reflects a combination of seasonal factors and local dynamics, with violence and sexual offences accounting for 38.1% of all reported crimes. The town's crime profile shows a clear distinction between property and violent crime categories, with the latter dominating at 88 incidents compared to 73 property crimes. The seasonal context of April—marked by Easter celebrations and spring weather—likely contributed to patterns observed, as increased outdoor activity may have influenced both crime opportunities and policing priorities. Violence and sexual offences, at 3.0 per 1,000, exceeded the UK average by 17%, a figure that may be partially explained by the town's role as a regional hub for social and commercial activity. Anti-social behaviour, at 1.4 per 1,000, also showed a 15% gap above the UK average, linked to the built-up area's density and the presence of multiple public spaces. In contrast, shoplifting fell 10% below the UK average, suggesting effective retail security measures in the town's high streets. The data also reveals significant disparities in crime types, with criminal damage and arson at 1.0 per 1,000—69% above the UK average—highlighting vulnerabilities in the area's infrastructure or community engagement efforts. These patterns must be contextualised within Barnstaple's status as a coastal town with a mix of residential and commercial zones, where seasonal fluctuations in population and activity levels likely influence crime trends.

April saw a 66.7% reduction in theft from the person, falling from 3 to 1 incident. This decline aligns with Easter-related disruptions to usual patterns of pedestrian activity in the town centre. Bicycle theft also dropped by 50%, from 2 to 1, a trend consistent with increased daylight hours and warmer weather reducing opportunities for such crimes. Conversely, possession of weapons rose by 100%, with 2 reported incidents compared to 0 in March. This increase may reflect heightened police visibility during Easter patrols. Violent crimes remained the most prevalent category, accounting for 38.1% of all incidents.0 per 1,000 was 17% above the UK average. Shoplifting fell 10% below the UK average, suggesting effective retail security measures in the area's high streets.

Barnstaple's crime rate in April 2024 fell by 22.5% compared to March 2024, dropping from 10.1 to 7.8 per 1,000 residents. This marks the most significant monthly decline in the area's recent data history. On a daily basis, 8 crimes were reported across the built-up area in April, a figure that translates to roughly one reported crime for every 128 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate is lower than the 1-in-84 figure recorded in March, reflecting broader trends in crime reduction. When scaled to the population of 29,465, the 231 total crimes represent a manageable proportion of the community. increase above the UK average highlights areas for continued attention. The shift from March's higher rate aligns with seasonal patterns, as Easter holidays and spring weather may have temporarily reduced opportunities for certain types of crime.