Hexham Crime Rate May 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Hexham's crime rate in May 2023 stood at 5.1 per 1,000 residents, a figure that places the area 36.3% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. This consistent underperformance relative to national norms reflects the town's unique character as a built-up area within Northumberland, where low population density and limited urban infrastructure likely contribute to reduced opportunities for crime. The most prevalent crime type was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 37.7% of all reported incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (17.0%) and criminal damage and arson (13.2%). Seasonal factors appear to play a role in these patterns, as May's extended evenings and increased socialising in public spaces may have influenced both the frequency and nature of reported crimes. While the overall rate remains significantly below the UK average, the data reveals a nuanced picture: Hexham's rate for violence and sexual offences is 32% below the national benchmark, but criminal damage and arson exceeds the UK average by 13%. This discrepancy suggests that local enforcement priorities and environmental factors may be shaping distinct crime trends. The relatively low rate of property crimes (25.5% of total incidents) further aligns with the area's rural context, where traditional burglary and vehicle crime are less common than in major urban centres. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring crime prevention strategies to Hexham's specific demographic and geographic profile.

May 2023 saw a 16.7% reduction in violence and sexual offences, dropping from 24 to 20 incidents. This decline, coupled with a 25% decrease in anti-social behaviour (from 12 to 9), suggests improved community safety measures or seasonal factors influencing public conduct. Conversely, other theft rose sharply by 100% (from 1 to 2 incidents), highlighting a specific vulnerability. Hexham's rate for violence and sexual offences (1.9 per 1,000) remains 32% below the UK average (2.8 per 1,000), while criminal damage and arson (0.7 per 1,000) is 13% above the national rate (0.6 per 1,000). These contrasting trends underscore the complexity of local crime dynamics. Residents may find the 100% increase in other theft particularly concerning, as it indicates a shift in criminal focus that could warrant targeted awareness campaigns.

Hexham's crime rate in May 2023 rose by 10.4% compared to April's 4.6 per 1,000, reaching 5.1 per 1,000. While this marks a slight upward trend, the area remains 36.3% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. Locally, this translates to roughly two crimes reported per day over the 31-day period, a figure that may appear low but reflects the area's relatively small population of 10,393. When considering monthly exposure, one reported crime occurred for every 196 residents over the course of the month. This ratio provides context for residents: in a community of this size, the likelihood of encountering crime is significantly lower than in larger urban centres. The increase in May is consistent with seasonal patterns, as extended evenings and increased socialising in public spaces may contribute to fluctuations in certain crime types. However, the overall trajectory remains firmly in line with Hexham's historically lower crime profile compared to national averages.