Pendle Crime Rate May 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Pendle's crime profile in May 2023, accounting for 37.5% of all reported crimes — the highest proportion of any category. This category's rate of 2.8 per 1,000 matched the UK average, but its sheer volume (280 incidents) underscores its significance as the primary driver of crime in the district. Anti-social behaviour followed closely with 219 incidents (29.4% of total), a figure 65% above the UK average. This discrepancy may be attributed to Pendle's blend of urban centres and rural areas, where community interactions and public spaces can foster both social cohesion and conflict. The seasonal context of May — with its bank holidays and extended evenings — likely contributes to increased outdoor activity, which may partly explain the rise in violence and anti-social behaviour. While property crimes (173 incidents) formed the third largest category, their share (23.2%) was lower than the UK average. This could reflect Pendle's relatively low levels of vehicle crime (11% below UK average) and burglary (35% below UK average), due to the district's dispersed nature and lower population density. However, the 6.2% reduction in the overall crime rate compared to the UK average (7.5 vs 8.0 per 1,000) highlights Pendle's generally safer profile, though localised challenges remain in addressing anti-social behaviour and drug-related incidents.

May 2023 saw a 100% increase in drug-related crimes, rising from 9 to 18 incidents. This surge, alongside a 100% rise in theft from the person (from 0 to 4), signals a concerning trend in certain areas. Anti-social behaviour remained the second most common crime, with 219 incidents — 65% above the UK average. This category's prominence may be linked to the district's mix of urban and rural areas, where social interactions in public spaces are more frequent. Conversely, shoplifting dropped by 55.6%, a stark contrast to the previous month's 18 incidents. This decline could reflect seasonal factors, such as fewer tourists in May compared to peak summer months. The data also shows a 40.4% decrease in other theft, suggesting shifting criminal activity towards more discreet or targeted methods.

Pendle's crime rate in May 2023 rose 7.9% compared to April, reflecting a shift in crime patterns across the district. With 746 crimes reported over 31 days, the daily average stands at 24 crimes — a figure that underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in local communities. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 134 residents, a monthly exposure rate that aligns with Pendle's population of nearly 100,000. This statistic provides context for residents, illustrating that while the rate remains below the UK average, the absolute number of incidents has increased. The rise in anti-social behaviour and drug-related crimes, coupled with a decline in shoplifting, suggests evolving dynamics in crime hotspots. These changes may be influenced by seasonal factors such as longer evenings and bank holidays, which could contribute to increased socialising and associated risks.