Brecon Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Brecon's crime rate in August 2023 reached 12.8 per 1,000 residents, a figure 58.0% above the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. This stark deviation from national norms is driven by a surge in violent crimes, which accounted for 41.0% of all reported incidents—34 cases, including 34 instances of violence and sexual offences, 5.2 per 1,000 residents. This category alone is 97% above the UK average, a discrepancy that likely reflects local factors such as seasonal tourism and the presence of transient populations during peak holiday periods. Anti-social behaviour (17 cases, 20.5% of total) and public order offences (12 cases, 14.5% of total) also contributed significantly to the elevated rate, with the latter category 200% above the UK average. The seasonal context of August—typically a month of increased tourism and empty homes—may have created conditions conducive to such crimes, though the exact causal links remain speculative. While property crimes (16 cases) were relatively low compared to violent crimes, the breakdown shows that violent offences dominate the local crime picture, a pattern consistent with areas experiencing transient populations and heightened social interactions during holidays. The overall rate, however, remains a cause for concern, as it suggests a systemic challenge in maintaining public safety during this time of year.

August 2023 marked a sharp escalation in violent crimes, with violence and sexual offences surging by 78.9% to 34 incidents—nearly 5.2 per 1,000 residents, 97% above the UK average. This spike, coupled with a 75% increase in criminal damage and arson, signals a troubling trend in public safety. Anti-social behaviour also rose, contributing 20.5% of total crimes, while public order offences hit 1.8 per 1,000, 200% above the UK average. These figures contrast starkly with declines in burglary (down 50%) and shoplifting (down 50%), though the latter’s reduction may be influenced by lower foot traffic during August, a peak holiday month. Residents should be particularly vigilant in areas prone to public order disputes and property damage, as these categories remain far above national averages. The 100% increase in 'other crime'—a category often linked to unclassified or emerging issues—adds an additional layer of concern, suggesting potential gaps in reporting or evolving criminal patterns.

Brecon's crime rate in August 2023 rose by 36.0% compared to the previous month, moving from 9.4 to 12.8 per 1,000 residents. This increase underscores a marked shift in local crime dynamics, particularly in violent and public order offences. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately three crimes per day during August, a figure that, while local to Brecon, highlights the frequency of incidents within a small population. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 78 residents, a statistic that contextualises the impact of crime on the community. With a population of 6,505, this monthly exposure rate reflects the proportion of residents affected by crime, though it does not account for unreported incidents. The contrast between Brecon's current rate and the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000 further illustrates the area's elevated risk, particularly in categories like violence and public order, which are significantly above national benchmarks. This comparison invites consideration of local factors—such as seasonal tourism or community-specific vulnerabilities—that may amplify these trends.