Fakenham Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Fakenham

Fakenham reports an overall crime rate of 66.5 per 1,000 people per year, which is lower than the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000. The area maintains a robust safety score of 85 out of 100, also surpassing the UK average safety score of 78. However, the latest data indicates an increasing trend in crime, with a 5.9% rise year-over-year. While Fakenham remains a comparatively safe area, this upward trend suggests a need for residents to stay informed about local crime patterns and consider preventative measures to maintain their security.

Crime Type Analysis in Fakenham

In Fakenham, the most significant crime category is Violence and sexual offences, accounting for 210 incidents, which represents 39.1% of all crimes and a rate of 26.0 per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting follows as the second most common type, with 98 reported crimes, making up 18.2% of the total and a rate of 12.1 per 1,000. Anti-social behaviour is the third most prevalent crime, with 74 incidents, comprising 13.8% of the total and a rate of 9.2 per 1,000.

Focusing on property-related crime, Fakenham experiences a rate of 22.0 per 1,000 people per year, which is lower than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. Specific figures show burglary at 1.6 per 1,000, vehicle crime at 1.1 per 1,000, and other theft at 3.7 per 1,000. The relatively high incidence of shoplifting suggests a particular vulnerability for local businesses. For homeowners, while burglary rates are lower than the national average, the overall property crime figure indicates that vigilance and effective home security measures are still important to protect assets.

Crime Trends in Fakenham

Fakenham has observed an increasing trend in crime rates, with a 5.9% rise year-over-year. This upward shift indicates a change in the area's safety profile. Reviewing the monthly crime rate per 1,000 residents, there have been noticeable fluctuations. The rate was 6.4 in October 2024, dropped to 3.1 in December 2024, then saw a significant increase to 6.7 in March 2025 and remained high through July 2025 at 6.7. While August and September 2025 saw slightly lower rates of 5.6 and 5.8 respectively, the overall trend reflects a period of heightened criminal activity compared to the previous year. Residents should be aware of this trend and consider appropriate preventative actions.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Fakenham

Crime patterns in Fakenham indicate varying activity across different periods. Morning hours (6am-12pm) show a notable proportion of theft (56%) and some burglary (11%), suggesting vulnerabilities in commercial or high-traffic areas as daily routines begin. In the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft remains high at 59%, with burglary slightly increasing to 18%, likely linked to peak shopping times and residents being away from home. As evening approaches (6pm-12am), theft significantly decreases to 27%, while "Other" crimes, potentially including public order and anti-social behaviour, become the most dominant category at 44%. Night-time (12am-6am) sees burglary peaking at 25% and vehicle crime rising to 26%, alongside a substantial 35% of "Other" crimes, indicating a period of increased risk for residential properties and parked vehicles.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

For a comprehensive understanding of safety in Fakenham, it is beneficial to compare its crime statistics with those of adjacent communities. Fakenham's overall crime rate of 66.5 per 1,000 residents is generally higher than some very rural neighbouring settlements like Hempton, Sculthorpe, and Colkirk, reflecting its status as a larger market town. However, it often compares favourably or similarly to other towns of its size in the region. By examining Fakenham's crime rates alongside these nearby areas, residents can gain a clearer perspective on regional safety dynamics and how Fakenham's profile fits within the broader local context of North Norfolk.

Protecting Your Property in Fakenham

Given Fakenham's property crime rate of 22.0 per 1,000, residents should prioritise robust home security. Relying solely on traditional CCTV often means you only get footage after a burglary, offering little comfort or actual prevention. If your aim is to genuinely stop crime before it impacts your home, consider a proactive approach.

scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, is designed to prevent crime. Instead of merely recording an incident, scOS actively detects and deters threats at your property's perimeter. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures comprehensive coverage, while advanced features like pattern learning distinguish between routine activities and genuine intruders. Upon detecting a threat, scOS can activate lights and engage speakers, disorienting potential burglars and destroying their element of surprise. This professional-grade security makes it clear that your property is well-protected, prompting most intruders to abandon their plans within the critical first 60 seconds and move on.