The question of why Kilgetty, a built-up area in Pembrokeshire with a population of 2317, exhibits a seemingly high rate of violence and sexual offences requires careful consideration. The recorded crime rate stands at 46.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While this figure is concerning, it's important to contextualise it alongside Kilgetty's surprisingly strong safety score of 88 out of 100, which is considerably better than the UK average of 79.
Several factors could contribute to this apparent discrepancy. Firstly, a higher crime rate doesn't necessarily equate to a more dangerous environment. It could reflect a greater willingness amongst residents to report incidents, leading to a higher recorded number. Secondly, the relatively small population of Kilgetty means that even a small number of incidents can disproportionately impact the crime rate per 1,000. A few serious offences will have a greater effect on the rate than in larger areas.
Without more detailed data regarding the specific nature of the reported crimes, it's difficult to pinpoint precise causes. It's possible that specific local circumstances, such as changes in demographics or economic conditions within the period covered by the data, might be contributing factors. Increased visibility and reporting of these types of crimes can also artificially inflate the figures.
Furthermore, the safety score of 88 indicates that residents generally feel safe in Kilgetty. This suggests that, despite the higher crime rate, the perceived level of safety remains high. It’s vital to note that crime statistics only represent reported incidents; the true extent of criminal activity might be higher. Further analysis of the types of offences reported, victim demographics, and potential offenders would be necessary to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.