Dronfield Crime Rate December 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Dronfield's December 2023 crime rate of 3.8 per 1,000 residents marked a significant 47.2% reduction compared to the UK average of 7.2 per 1,000. This low rate, consistent with the area's status as a smaller built-up community within North East Derbyshire, reflects a combination of local factors and seasonal dynamics. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime profile, accounting for 43.2% of all incidents.7 per 1,000 remains 35% below the UK average. Public order offences (12.4% of total crimes) and other theft (9.9%) followed, with the latter’s rate 32% below the UK average. The seasonal context of December—characterised by Christmas shopping, extended dark hours, and the absence of residents during holidays—likely contributed to fluctuations in crime patterns. For instance, the sharp drop in shoplifting (60% decrease) may be linked to reduced retail activity and the closure of homes during the festive season. Conversely, the rise in vehicle crime could be attributed to increased traffic congestion and the movement of goods during the holiday period. These trends illustrate how Dronfield's crime profile is shaped by both its geographical context and the rhythms of the wider region, with the town's relatively low population density and community-oriented environment likely playing a role in maintaining its below-average crime rates.

December 2023 saw a sharp 150% increase in vehicle crime, rising from two to five incidents, a trend that may reflect heightened traffic activity during the Christmas shopping period. Meanwhile, 'other crime' rose by 100%, with seven reports recorded, a category that includes unclassified incidents and may indicate underreported or emerging issues. Violence and sexual offences also increased by 16.7%, though they remain 35% below the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000. Conversely, shoplifting fell by 60%, dropping from five to two incidents, likely due to reduced foot traffic in retail areas during the festive season. The category of 'other crime'—which is 150% above the UK average—deserves closer attention, as it suggests unclassified incidents that may require further investigation. These shifts in crime mix highlight the dynamic nature of local crime patterns, influenced by both seasonal factors and the area's unique characteristics.

Dronfield's crime rate in December 2023 fell slightly to 3.8 per 1,000 residents, a 2.3% decrease from the previous month's 3.9 per 1,000. This small decline aligns with seasonal patterns in the area, where holiday-related activity and shorter evenings may temporarily reduce opportunities for certain crimes. On a daily basis, the town recorded approximately three crimes per day, a figure that reflects the low overall rate relative to national averages. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 262 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the relatively low frequency of incidents in Dronfield compared to other parts of the UK. When scaled to the local population of 21,206, this suggests that most residents are unlikely to experience crime directly, though the proximity to larger urban centres may still influence certain crime types. The population context further highlights how the town's smaller size and community-focused environment may contribute to its lower crime profile compared to more densely populated areas.