Reigate and Banstead Crime Rate October 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Reigate and Banstead's crime rate for October 2023 stood at 6.3 per 1,000 residents, placing the area 21.3% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. This continued trend of lower-than-average crime reflects the local authority's broader safety profile. The most common crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 37.9% of all reported incidents—slightly below the UK average for this category (2.7 per 1,000). Anti-social behaviour followed closely, making up 16.0% of total crimes, also significantly below the UK average. Vehicle crime, at 0.6 per 1,000, was the only category in Reigate and Banstead that exceeded the UK rate (0.5 per 1,000) by 15%. The month of October, with its shorter daylight hours and Halloween activities, may have contributed to shifts in crime dynamics, particularly in public spaces. While the overall rate remains stable, the interplay between local demographics—such as the presence of commuter routes and suburban residential areas—and seasonal transitions likely plays a role in sustaining lower crime levels compared to the national average.

The most dramatic month-on-month shift in October 2023 was the 78.6% increase in drug-related crimes, rising from 14 to 25 incidents. This surge, though still low compared to the UK average (0.2 per 1,000), may reflect heightened activity during the transition to darker evenings and the approach of winter. Robbery incidents also rose sharply by 66.7%, with three additional cases reported, and theft from the person increased by 50.0% (from two to three). These spikes could be linked to Halloween-related events or increased foot traffic in high-traffic areas. Conversely, anti-social behaviour declined by 13.6% (from 184 to 159), due to community initiatives or reduced public gatherings in the colder months. Other theft fell by 22.7%, a decrease that aligns with Reigate and Banstead's generally lower rates for this category (0.3 per 1,000, 52% below the UK average). The area's vehicle crime rate (0.6 per 1,000) remained 15% above the UK average, a discrepancy that may stem from the presence of commuter parking zones and road networks. Residents should note that while drug-related crimes have increased, the overall rate remains well below the national benchmark, suggesting targeted interventions may have mitigated broader risks.

The crime rate in Reigate and Banstead for October 2023 rose slightly to 6.3 per 1,000 from 6.1 per 1,000 in September, a 2.8% increase. On a daily basis, this translates to an average of 32 crimes reported each day in the local authority area—a figure that remains relatively low compared to larger urban centres. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 160 residents, a monthly exposure rate that is lower than the UK average. This statistic provides context for residents: the likelihood of experiencing a crime is significantly reduced in Reigate and Banstead compared to the national picture. The population-scaled perspective also highlights the effectiveness of local policing strategies, particularly in maintaining low rates for violent crimes and anti-social behaviour. While the small monthly increase in overall crime may raise questions, the area's crime profile continues to diverge from the UK average, with several categories—such as violence and shoplifting—remaining well below national levels. This contrast underscores the influence of local factors, including the area's mix of suburban and rural characteristics, on crime patterns.