Preston Crime Rate November 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Preston's crime rate in November 2023 stood at 10.8 per 1,000 residents, placing it 44% above the UK average of 7.5. This stark divergence from national trends highlights the area's unique challenges, particularly in violent and property-related crime. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 30.8% of all reported crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (28.0%) and criminal damage and arson (7.6%). These figures align with November's seasonal context—dark evenings and events like Bonfire Night likely contributing to heightened tensions and disorder. The prominence of anti-social behaviour, which is 186% above the UK average, suggests persistent issues with public conduct in densely populated areas, potentially linked to the town's economic and social dynamics. While property crime rates (563 incidents) remained proportionally similar to national averages, violent crime's disproportionate impact reflects underlying community pressures. This data illustrates an area grappling with complex local factors that amplify certain types of crime during the winter months.

November 2023 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with vehicle crime rising by 20.4% (98 → 118) and theft from the person increasing by 22.2% (9 → 11). These increases may be linked to Black Friday shopping activity and the extended darkness of November evenings, which could deter visibility and encourage opportunistic behaviour. Conversely, bicycle theft fell by 41.7% (24 → 14), due to seasonal changes in cycling patterns or improved security measures. Anti-social behaviour remained alarmingly high, with rates 186% above the UK average, while drugs-related crime was 50% above national levels—both indicating areas where targeted interventions may be warranted. The proportion of violent crime (30.8% of total) was slightly higher than the UK average, but property crime's share (32.0%) was lower, reflecting a mixed crime profile that contrasts with more typical urban centres. Residents might find the 27% increase in shoplifting (0.7 per 1,000) particularly concerning, as it suggests ongoing challenges with retail security despite the month's relatively low seasonal footfall.

Preston's crime rate in November 2023 (10.8 per 1,000) marked a 9.4% decrease from the previous month's 11.9 per 1,000, indicating a slight but measurable improvement in overall safety. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 59 crimes per day, translating to one reported crime for every 93 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure figure underscores the persistent nature of crime in Preston, even as rates show modest declines. When compared to the UK average, the disparity remains stark: while the national average sees one crime for every 133 residents, Preston's residents face a significantly higher risk. The population context—162,864 residents—means that even small percentage changes represent tangible impacts for local communities. The reduction in burglary (25.0% decrease) and other crime (33.3% decrease) may reflect improved policing strategies or community initiatives, though the continued dominance of anti-social behaviour and violence suggests that long-term systemic issues remain unaddressed. This comparison highlights both progress and the need for sustained efforts to address Preston's distinct crime profile.