Redcar and Cleveland Crime Rate

Redcar and Cleveland's crime profile is marked by an alarming 137% increase in criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average. With a crime rate of 138.7 per 1,000 residents—52% above the national average—the area faces unique challenges. While rural pockets like Easington report significantly lower rates, urban centres such as Eston and Redcar struggle with elevated crime. The sharp 94.9% surge in robbery and the persistent high rates of anti-social behaviour underscore the need for targeted interventions. Understanding these patterns is crucial for residents navigating daily life in this coastal region.

Redcar and Cleveland, a coastal area with a complex mix of urban and rural communities, has a crime profile shaped by its unique characteristics. The region's industrial heritage, particularly in areas like Redcar and Eston, may leave some properties in disrepair, contributing to higher rates of criminal damage and arson. The presence of commuter populations and transient residents in urban hubs like Redcar likely exacerbates anti-social behaviour, which is 93% above the UK average. Meanwhile, rural areas such as Easington (Redcar and Cleveland) show significantly lower crime rates, possibly due to lower population density and stronger community ties. However, Eston's crime rate is 65% higher than the local average, linked to its isolated geography and limited access to public services. The coastal towns of Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Marske-by-the-Sea, with their tourist attractions and leisure facilities, report lower rates of theft from the person compared to the UK average, reflecting the area's varied socioeconomic dynamics.

The most striking finding in Redcar and Cleveland's crime profile is the 137% increase in criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average. This is likely driven by the area's industrial past, which may leave properties vulnerable to vandalism, and the relatively young population, which may contribute to impulsive acts of destruction. Anti-social behaviour, 93% above the UK average, may be exacerbated by the presence of commuter populations and transient residents in urban centres like Redcar. The sharp 94.9% year-on-year increase in robbery is particularly concerning, linked to the rise in online shopping and the vulnerability of delivery vehicles in residential areas. This surge contrasts with the 80% decline in shoplifting, which may reflect improved retail security measures. Property crime, 55% above the UK average, is partly explained by the region's mix of older housing stock and newer developments, which may not always incorporate modern security features. Burglary rates are 117% above the UK average, suggesting a need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas like Eston and Redcar.

Crime in Redcar and Cleveland has remained stable year-on-year, with an overall 1.4% increase. However, the most alarming trend is the 94.9% surge in robbery, likely driven by the rise in online shopping and the targeting of delivery vehicles. This sharp increase contrasts with an 80% decline in shoplifting, which may reflect improved retail security measures. Public order crimes have decreased by 7.9% YoY, but they remain 39% above the UK average. Meanwhile, criminal damage and arson have risen by 8.8% YoY, highlighting the persistent challenge of vandalism in the area. These trends underscore the need for targeted interventions in high-risk sectors like robbery and property crime.

Compared to nearby areas, Redcar and Cleveland's crime rate of 138.7 per 1,000 is 6% higher than Stockton-on-Tees (131.3) and 38% higher than Sunderland (100.8). However, it is 33% lower than Middlesbrough (184.1), which has the highest crime rate in the region. The safest nearby area is Sunderland, with a crime rate 38% below Redcar and Cleveland's. Within the local authority, Eston stands out as the most dangerous area, with a crime rate 65% higher than the average, while Easington is significantly safer, with a rate 164% lower.

For residents in Redcar and Cleveland, where criminal damage and arson rates are 137% above the UK average, proactive security measures are essential, scOS offers AI-powered boundary detection that identifies threats at the property perimeter before a break-in occurs, reducing the risk of vandalism and arson. Its simultaneous multi-camera monitoring ensures comprehensive coverage, while autonomous deterrence features—such as automated lighting and speaker activation—can disrupt potential offenders. This is particularly relevant in areas like Eston and Redcar, where property crime is significantly elevated, scOS's ability to distinguish between benign and threatening activity minimizes false alarms, offering a tailored solution for regions with high rates of targeted and random acts of destruction.

How To Keep Safe in Redcar and Cleveland

Residents in Redcar and Cleveland should prioritize securing properties against criminal damage and arson, given the 137% higher rate compared to the UK average. Install robust outdoor lighting in high-traffic areas like Eston and Redcar, where vandalism is prevalent. For burglary prevention, consider scOS's perimeter detection and automated deterrence features, which can discourage intruders in areas with elevated burglary rates (117% above UK average). Avoid leaving vehicles unattended in residential areas, as robbery has surged by 94.9% year-on-year, likely linked to delivery vehicles. In rural areas like Easington, where crime is lower, community engagement remains key to maintaining safety. Always report suspicious activity to local authorities, and use Neighbourhood Watch programs to foster local vigilance.