Preston Crime Rate June 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Preston's crime profile in June 2023 reveals a stark divergence from the UK average, with a crime rate of 11.9 per 1,000 residents — 40% higher than the national figure of 8.5. This urban district, home to over 162,000 residents, faces particular challenges in violent and property-related crime. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 32.4% of all reported crimes, marking a 34% increase above the UK average for this category. Anti-social behaviour, the second most common offence, was 136% above the national average, a figure that likely reflects the area's dense population and high foot traffic in commercial zones. Seasonal factors may also play a role: as summer begins, extended daylight hours and increased tourism could contribute to heightened public disorder. Criminal damage and arson, though smaller in volume, were 41% above the UK average, linked to targeted vandalism in under-resourced neighbourhoods. The breakdown underscores a systemic issue — while property crimes make up 28.7% of the total, violent crime remains the most pressing concern, with 32.4% of all incidents falling into this category. This imbalance suggests a need for focused interventions in areas with high concentrations of violent crime, such as the town centre and surrounding housing estates. The data also indicates a seasonal pattern: as June marks the start of the summer tourist season, the influx of visitors may strain local resources and increase opportunities for opportunistic crime. However, the exact relationship between tourism and crime remains speculative without further data on visitor numbers or local events.

June 2023 saw a 100% increase in theft from the person, with incidents doubling from 11 to 22. This sharp rise, though small in absolute terms, signals a worrying trend that residents should monitor closely. Concurrently, violence and sexual offences rose by 11.9%, from 562 to 629, placing Preston 34% above the UK average for this category. Anti-social behaviour remained the most prevalent single crime type, at 3.5 per 1,000 residents — 136% above the UK average. This figure may be partly explained by the area's urban density and the concentration of retail and leisure spaces in the city centre. Conversely, bicycle theft fell by 37%, from 27 to 17, a decline that could reflect seasonal changes in cycling patterns or improved local security measures. Robbery also decreased by 42.9%, from 21 to 12. The data reveals a mixed picture: while property crimes like burglary and shoplifting remained elevated, violent crime continued to dominate. Drug-related offences fell by 25.6%, from 43 to 32, a decrease that may be linked to ongoing enforcement efforts or shifting patterns in illicit activity. Residents should remain vigilant, particularly in areas with high concentrations of anti-social behaviour and violent crime, as these represent the most significant risks to personal safety.

Preston's crime rate in June 2023 stood at 11.9 per 1,000 residents, a slight decline from the previous month's rate of 12.2 (a 2.6% reduction). However, this monthly dip does not alter the broader picture of persistent above-average crime levels. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 65 crimes per day — a figure that, while localised to Preston, highlights the need for continuous vigilance. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 84 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the frequency of incidents in this densely populated district. When compared to the UK average, Preston's violent crime rate remains significantly higher: violence and sexual offences were 34% above the national average, while anti-social behaviour was 136% above. This disparity suggests that local factors — such as the area's urban density, economic challenges, and the presence of multiple commercial hubs — may contribute to the elevated rates. The population-scaled perspective reveals that the crime burden is felt by Preston's residents, who face a higher risk of encountering crime than the national average. While the monthly decline offers a small reprieve, the overall trajectory remains concerning, with no indication of a significant long-term downward trend. Residents are advised to stay informed about local crime patterns and consider safety measures tailored to the specific risks in their neighbourhoods.