Cottam (Preston) Crime Rate May 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominate Cottam (Preston)'s crime profile in May 2024, accounting for nearly half of all reported crimes. At 9.2 crimes per 1,000 residents, the area's overall crime rate is 9.5% above the UK average of 8.4, reflecting persistent challenges in this built-up district of Preston. The most common category, violence and sexual offences (27 incidents), is 44% above the UK average for this category, with a 50% month-on-month increase from 18 incidents in April. This surge aligns with seasonal patterns typical of late spring, when extended evenings and bank holidays may contribute to increased socialising and associated risks. Anti-social behaviour (16 incidents) also significantly exceeds the UK average by 72%, suggesting ongoing issues with public disorder that could be linked to the area's density of residential and commercial properties. Other crime (4 incidents) is 253% above the UK average, a stark outlier that may indicate underreported or unique local factors. The crime mix remains heavily weighted towards violent crime, with property crimes (12 total) making up just 20% of the total, a proportion lower than the UK average. Seasonal context suggests that May's longer evenings and increased outdoor activity may amplify interactions in public spaces, contributing to the rise in violent incidents. While direct causes, the combination of urban density, social dynamics, and seasonal rhythms likely plays a role in shaping this month's crime picture.

May 2024 saw a 50% increase in violence and sexual offences compared to April, with the category rising from 18 to 27 incidents. This jump, coupled with a 300% surge in 'other crime' (from 1 to 4 incidents), underscores a significant shift in the crime mix. Anti-social behaviour, though not rising as sharply as other categories, remains 72% above the UK average at 2.5 per 1,000 residents. Conversely, shoplifting and public order offences both fell by 50%, reflecting potential seasonal shifts or targeted interventions. The most striking UK comparison is in 'other crime,' which is 253% above the national average of 0.2 per 1,000. This anomaly may relate to specific local factors. Meanwhile, criminal damage and arson (4 incidents) is 3% below the UK average, a minor but notable contrast. For residents, the 50% increase in violence-related crimes highlights the need for awareness during late spring evenings, when outdoor activity peaks. The sharp rise in 'other crime' also suggests areas requiring further scrutiny, though the exact nature of these incidents remains unspecified in the dataset.

Cottam (Preston)'s crime rate in May 2024 (9.2 per 1,000) marks a 22.4% increase from the previous month's rate of 7.5, indicating a clear upward trend. This rise translates to an average of 2 crimes per day across the 31-day period, a figure that may feel more tangible for residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 109 residents, a monthly exposure rate that, while not extreme, suggests consistent community impact. When compared to the UK average, Cottam's rate is 9.5% higher, a gap that may reflect the area's urban density and social dynamics. The population context is critical: with 6,533 residents, the 60 total crimes represent a manageable but noticeable burden. The 22.4% monthly increase contrasts with the 44% UK average for violence and sexual offences, highlighting a localised challenge. The daily crime count (2 per day) and monthly exposure (1 in 109 residents) provide concrete metrics for residents to contextualise safety. While the area's crime rate remains below the UK's most troubled regions, the upward trajectory in violent crime and the sharp rise in 'other crime' suggest areas warranting attention. The comparison to the previous month's rate also underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring, as even modest increases can compound over time.