Portsmouth Crime Rate May 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Portsmouth's crime profile in May 2025 reveals a stark dominance of violent crimes over property-related incidents, a shift that may reflect seasonal and local dynamics. With a total crime rate of 11.0 per 1,000 residents—35.8% above the UK average—the area faces a significant challenge in addressing public safety. The breakdown of crimes shows that 40.2% of reported incidents fall under violence and sexual offences, a category that is 55% above the UK average. This is compounded by shoplifting, which contributes 11.7% of total crimes and is 94% above the national rate. Anti-social behaviour, though lower than the UK average, remains a concern at 10.6% of incidents. May's extended evenings and bank holidays likely contribute to increased socialising in public spaces, which may partly explain the elevated levels of violence and disorder. The seasonal context suggests that outdoor drinking and socialising, typical in a coastal city like Portsmouth, could be a factor in the higher rates of violent and public order offences. This pattern contrasts with property crimes, which account for 33.9% of incidents, indicating a shift in the nature of criminal activity during this period. The data highlights the need for targeted strategies that address both the immediate risks of violent crime and the underlying factors that may sustain these trends.

May 2025 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with violent crimes dominating the landscape. Robbery increased by 33.3% (21 to 28), while burglary rose by 30.4% (46 to 60), and theft from the person climbed by 25.0% (8 to 10). These rises may partly explain the overall 11.1% monthly increase in crime rates. Conversely, other crime decreased by 28.6% (42 to 30), and possession of weapons fell by 10.3% (39 to 35), suggesting temporary reductions in certain areas. Violence and sexual offences, at 4.4 per 1,000, were 55% above the UK average, while shoplifting—1.3 per 1,000—was 94% above the national rate. This stark contrast with UK averages indicates local pressures, such as the impact of May's bank holidays and extended evenings on public spaces. For residents, the increase in robbery and burglary underscores the need for heightened awareness in areas with high foot traffic or outdoor activity.

Portsmouth's crime rate in May 2025 rose to 11.0 per 1,000 residents, marking an 11.1% increase from April's 9.9 per 1,000. This places the area firmly above the UK average, though the rate remains a local concern. Daily crime statistics reveal 79 crimes reported each day, a figure that underscores the persistent challenge of maintaining public safety. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 91 residents, a monthly exposure that translates to a tangible risk for the community. With a population of 222,504, the scale of incidents highlights the need for targeted interventions. The rise in violent crimes, particularly violence and sexual offences, contrasts with the UK average, suggesting local factors—such as increased social activity during May's longer evenings—may contribute to this trend. These numbers, while not directly comparable to national daily figures, reflect the unique dynamics of a built-up area with a mix of urban and coastal characteristics.