Fakenham Crime Rate August 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Fakenham recorded 72 crimes in August 2024, equating to a crime rate of 8.9 per 1,000 residents — 8.5% above the UK average of 8.2 per 1,000. This figure translates to roughly one crime for every 112 residents in a population of 8,079, underscoring the local impact of criminal activity. The most prevalent crime category was shoplifting, accounting for 43.1% of all incidents (31 cases), a rate of 3.8 per 1,000 — 435% above the UK average for this category. Violence and sexual offences followed with 19 cases (26.4% of total), while anti-social behaviour contributed 12.5% (9 cases). These patterns are consistent with Fakenham’s character as a small built-up area within North Norfolk, where retail and tourism likely intersect during the summer months. The seasonal context of August, a peak holiday period, may contribute to increased shoplifting and property-related crimes, as tourist foot traffic and temporary occupancy of homes could heighten opportunities for theft. Meanwhile, the UK average for violence and sexual offences (2.7 per 1,000) is 11% higher than Fakenham’s rate, suggesting a relatively safer environment in this category. However, the surge in shoplifting highlights the need for targeted measures in retail zones, particularly during the summer season when visitor numbers are likely to be at their highest. The overall crime rate, though modest compared to larger urban centres, remains a concern for the community and local authorities, who must balance resource allocation with the specific needs of a small, rural-adjacent population.

August 2024 saw a dramatic 244.4% increase in shoplifting, with 31 incidents reported — a stark contrast to the 9 cases in July. This surge, 435% above the UK average for the category, may reflect the area’s retail presence and heightened foot traffic during the summer holiday season. Meanwhile, public order offences dropped by 71.4%, from 7 to 2, aligning with the UK average in this category. Violence and sexual offences, though 11% below the UK average, remain a notable concern at 19 cases, or 2.4 per 1,000 residents. The increase in criminal damage and arson (+100%) and drugs offences (+100%) from July suggests emerging patterns that warrant closer examination. For residents, the shoplifting spike highlights the need for vigilance in retail areas, particularly during peak tourist periods.

Fakenham's crime rate in August 2024 (8.9 per 1,000 residents) marks a 46.8% increase from July's 6.1 per 1,000, reflecting a sharp upward trend. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 2 crimes per day, a figure that underscores the frequency of incidents in a community of 8,079 people. Over the course of the month, the equivalent of one reported crime occurred for roughly every 112 residents, a monthly exposure rate that contextualises the impact of crime on the local population. This rate is higher than the previous month, suggesting potential seasonal or situational factors influencing criminal activity. While the daily figure is a local metric without a UK-wide counterpart, the population-scaled perspective highlights the relative density of incidents compared to Fakenham’s demographic size. This context is critical for residents assessing risk and for local authorities planning resource allocation.