Grimsby Crime Rate

Grimsby recorded a crime rate of 158.8 per 1,000 residents in the 12 months leading up to January 2026. This figure is considerably higher than the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, indicating a heightened risk of criminal activity within the local area. The most frequently reported crimes include violence and sexual offences, criminal damage and arson, and shoplifting, each contributing to the overall crime profile. While the overall trend remains stable at 0.5% year-on-year, understanding the specific crime types and their prevalence is essential for residents and potential visitors.

Grimsby presents a concerning crime landscape, particularly regarding violence and sexual offences, criminal damage and arson, and shoplifting. Violence and sexual offences account for 36.9% of reported crimes, significantly exceeding the UK average. Criminal damage and arson are also notably high, at 11.5% of all crimes, more than double the national average. Shoplifting contributes further to the overall crime picture, reflecting a pattern of property-related offences prevalent in the area. The elevated rates of these crimes, alongside other property crimes, indicate potential challenges related to socio-economic factors, community engagement, and targeted preventative measures.

While the overall crime rate in Grimsby remains stable at 0.5% year-on-year, a closer examination reveals fluctuations in specific crime categories. For example, drugs-related offenses have risen by a substantial 94.6%, while vehicle crime has increased by 41.8%. Conversely, theft from the person has decreased by 38.6%. Monthly crime data from February 2025 to January 2026 shows a peak in July 2025 with 16.0 crimes per 1,000 residents, compared to a low of 11.0 per 1,000 in February 2025. This variability underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions.

How To Keep Safe in Grimsby

Given Grimsby's crime rate of 158.8 per 1,000 residents and a safety score of 63, it's important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Violence and sexual offences, criminal damage, and shoplifting are prevalent, so take precautions. When out at night, stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone. Secure your home and belongings; consider installing security lights and alarms. Be mindful of your valuables and report any suspicious activity to the police. If you've been a victim of a crime, seek support from local victim services. Travel with friends or in groups when possible, and be wary of strangers. Stay informed about local crime trends by checking police updates and community safety alerts. Remember to trust your instincts and remove yourself from any situation that feels unsafe.

Criminal activity in Grimsby exhibits distinct patterns throughout the day. Burglary risks are elevated during the morning and afternoon hours, while vehicle crime is more prevalent during the night. Theft is concentrated during commercial hours, and other forms of crime tend to peak during the evening. These patterns highlight the importance of heightened vigilance during specific times of the day.

Grimsby's crime rate stands out when compared to neighbouring local authorities. Cleethorpes has a higher rate at 148.5 per 1,000, while Waltham presents a considerably safer alternative with a rate of just 33.5 per 1,000. Understanding these differences can inform decisions about living and working in the region.

Traditional CCTV systems often record incidents after they occur, providing evidence but doing little to prevent crime. However, with escalating crime rates in Grimsby – particularly burglary at 6.8 per 1,000 residents – proactive security is becoming increasingly crucial. Systems like scOS leverage AI to detect threats before they escalate, utilising multi-camera intelligence, DVLA vehicle verification, and pattern learning to identify and respond to potential risks. The visible deterrence of professional-grade security can often be enough to make criminals reconsider their actions, offering a significant advantage over reactive security measures.