Pendle Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Pendle's overall crime rate in January 2026 stood at 7.4 per 1,000 residents, placing it 8.8% above the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000. This figure reflects a combination of local factors, including the area's mix of urban and rural landscapes, which may influence crime patterns differently than more densely populated regions. The most prevalent crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 39.8% of all reported incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (21.6%) and criminal damage and arson (6.4%). These figures align with seasonal patterns typical of January, a post-holiday period characterised by reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours, which may contribute to a shift in criminal activity towards more domestic or localised incidents. The relatively high rate of anti-social behaviour compared to the UK average (72% above) could be linked to the area's community dynamics, where transient populations or limited public services may exacerbate such issues. Meanwhile, the lower-than-average rates for shoplifting (47% below UK) and vehicle crime (46% below) suggest that Pendle's retail environment or transport infrastructure may deter these specific types of offences. This month's data underscores the importance of considering both local demographics and broader seasonal trends when interpreting crime statistics, as Pendle's unique character—a mix of commuter suburbs and rural enclaves—shapes its crime profile in ways distinct from larger urban centres.

January 2026 saw notable shifts in Pendle's crime profile, with certain categories experiencing sharp changes. Bicycle theft surged by 100%, rising from one incident to two, a figure that may reflect seasonal demand for cycling during colder months or increased vulnerability in specific areas. Simultaneously, possession of weapons increased by 50%, from six to nine incidents, a trend that could be connected to the post-holiday period or broader societal factors. In contrast, theft from the person fell by 50%, from four to two incidents, linked to reduced foot traffic in retail areas following Christmas. The rate of criminal damage and arson also dropped by 31.9%, from 69 to 47, a decrease that might align with the seasonal slowdown in outdoor activities typical of January. Pendle's violence and sexual offences category remained significantly above the UK average (16% higher), while anti-social behaviour was 72% above the national rate, highlighting areas where targeted interventions may be necessary. Conversely, shoplifting and vehicle crime were both below the UK average, with shoplifting at 47% below and vehicle crime at 46% below, suggesting that Pendle's unique characteristics—its rural expanses or community policing efforts—may contribute to these lower rates. For residents, the 50% reduction in theft from the person offers a tangible example of how crime patterns can shift month-on-month, influenced by both environmental and social factors.

Pendle's crime rate in January 2026 (7.4 per 1,000) marked a 2.8% decrease from the previous month's rate of 7.6 per 1,000, indicating a modest but measurable downward trend. This monthly exposure equates to one reported crime for every 135 residents over the course of the month, a figure that contextualises the rate within the local population of nearly 100,000 people. On a daily basis, Pendle experienced an average of 24 crimes per day in January, a statistic that provides a more immediate sense of the pace of criminal activity. While this rate is higher than the UK average, the month-on-month reduction suggests that local factors—such as increased community engagement or seasonal lulls—may be exerting a dampening effect on crime. The population-scaled perspective reveals that Pendle's crime rate, though elevated compared to the UK, does not translate to an overwhelming burden on residents, as the 1-in-135 figure illustrates the relative infrequency of incidents per individual. This comparative analysis highlights the importance of viewing Pendle's statistics within both local and national contexts, as the area's unique blend of urban and rural characteristics shapes its crime profile in ways distinct from more homogenous regions. The interplay between these factors and the observed month-on-month changes underscores the need for nuanced, data-driven approaches to understanding and addressing local crime trends.