Plymouth Crime Rate September 2023 | Monthly Statistics

With a population of 272,067 residents, Plymouth recorded 1,477 crimes in September 2023, translating to a crime rate of 5.4 per 1,000 people. This places the city 32.5% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000, reflecting a relatively safer environment compared to the national benchmark. The data reveals a distinct crime profile, with violence and sexual offences accounting for 29.3% of all reported crimes, followed closely by anti-social behaviour at 29.0%. These figures highlight a persistent focus on interpersonal and public order issues, which may be influenced by the city’s urban character and seasonal dynamics as September marks the transition into cooler weather and the start of the academic term. The seasonal context is particularly relevant here, as the return of students to local universities and the onset of darker evenings could contribute to increased incidents of violence and anti-social behaviour. However, the overall crime rate remains lower than the UK average, suggesting effective policing or community initiatives may be playing a role in maintaining this trend. The breakdown also shows that property crimes, including shoplifting and vehicle crime, are significantly below the UK average, reflecting the city’s efforts in securing retail areas and public spaces. Conversely, anti-social behaviour and drug-related offences present areas where local authorities may need to intensify their focus to address emerging challenges.

September 2023 saw a 60.9% increase in drug-related offences, rising from 46 to 74 incidents. This surge may be linked to the return of students to local universities and the associated social activities that often accompany the start of the academic year. Conversely, theft from the person decreased by 31.3%, from 16 to 11 cases, indicating a possible reduction in petty theft or improved public awareness of personal safety. Burglary also declined by 30.0%, from 20 to 14 incidents, which could reflect enhanced security measures or a seasonal decrease in property crime as the weather turns cooler. The data also highlights stark differences compared to UK averages, with violence and sexual offences in Plymouth being 42% below the national rate. This may be attributed to the city’s proactive policing strategies or community engagement efforts. However, anti-social behaviour in Plymouth is 19% above the UK average, suggesting that addressing public order issues remains a priority for local authorities.

Plymouth’s crime rate in September 2023 dropped to 5.4 per 1,000 residents, a 10.1% decrease from August’s 6.0 per 1,000. This decline, though modest, aligns with broader seasonal patterns as the city transitions into cooler weather and the academic term begins. On a daily basis, 49 crimes were reported per day, a figure that, while notable, reflects the city’s population density and urban character. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 184 residents, a monthly exposure rate that provides context for residents assessing their personal risk. When scaled to the population, this rate highlights that Plymouth’s crime levels are proportionally lower than the UK average, suggesting that local initiatives or policing strategies may be contributing to this trend. The city’s ability to maintain a crime rate 32.5% below the national average, despite seasonal fluctuations, underscores the importance of consistent community engagement and targeted interventions.