Letchworth Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Letchworth's crime profile in January 2026, accounting for 37.6% of all reported crimes, or 76 incidents. This category, which recorded a rate of 2.3 per 1,000 residents, was 8% below the UK average of 2.5 per 1,000. The area's overall crime rate of 6.1 per 1,000 residents placed it 10.3% below the national average, a consistent trend that reflects Letchworth's character as a relatively safe built-up area within North Hertfordshire. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, contributing 13.9% of total crimes, while other theft accounted for 10.9%, significantly exceeding the UK average by 52%. These patterns align with Letchworth's demographic and geographic profile, where the absence of large-scale industrial or commercial hubs may reduce certain types of crime but leave the area vulnerable to others. Seasonal factors also played a role: January's post-holiday period, reduced retail footfall, and shorter daylight hours likely contributed to the lower volume of outdoor crimes typically associated with the area. The dominance of violent crime, however, suggests that local social dynamics—such as the presence of older residents or transient populations—may be influencing these figures. While the overall rate remains below the UK average, the sharp rise in burglary and public order offences deserves closer attention, particularly as these categories deviate from historical trends.

January 2026 saw a 250% increase in burglary cases, rising from four to 14 incidents—a sharp contrast to the 62.5% decline in vehicle crime, which dropped from eight to three. This divergence suggests shifting patterns in property crime, potentially influenced by seasonal factors such as post-holiday activity or changes in household security practices. Public order offences also rose sharply by 114.3%, from seven to 15, indicating a possible link to increased social gatherings or events in the area during the post-Christmas period. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour decreased by 37.8%, a reduction that may reflect targeted local initiatives or seasonal changes in community activity. Other theft cases (10.9% of total crimes) exceeded the UK average by 52%, a figure that could signal specific vulnerabilities in retail or public spaces. These fluctuations offer critical insights for residents, particularly those concerned with property safety or community well-being.

Letchworth's crime rate rose by 5.4% from 5.8 to 6.1 per 1,000 residents in January 2026, marking a slight upward trend despite remaining 10.3% below the UK average. Daily crime activity averaged seven incidents per day, a figure that, while consistent with historical patterns, reflects the area's relatively low overall rate. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for every 164 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the area's safety profile compared to national benchmarks. This context is particularly relevant for residents and visitors, as it illustrates the balance between local crime dynamics and broader UK trends. The population-scaled perspective highlights that Letchworth's crime profile remains distinct, with its built-up area characteristics likely contributing to a mix of property and violent crime patterns that differ from both rural and highly urbanised regions.