Reigate Crime Rate February 2024 | Monthly Statistics

For an area with 25,220 residents, 122 crimes reported in February 2024 translates to 4.8 crimes per 1,000 people — 32.4% below the UK average of 7.1. This rate places Reigate among the safer built-up areas in the country, though the crime profile reflects distinct local patterns. Violence and sexual offences dominated with 42 cases (34.4% of total), followed by shoplifting (18.0%) and anti-social behaviour (9.8%). These figures align with Reigate’s character as a largely residential town with a mix of retail and community spaces. The winter season typically sees reduced outdoor activity, which may partly explain the relatively low overall crime rate compared to busier months. However, the prominence of violence and sexual offences suggests ongoing challenges in maintaining public safety in communal areas. Shoplifting, while lower than the UK average for most crime types, remains a notable concern given its sharp rise in February. This could be linked to pre-spring retail activity or targeted enforcement efforts in local stores. The overall crime rate, while historically low, still requires vigilance in addressing specific vulnerabilities, particularly in high-traffic areas where anti-social behaviour and property crimes intersect.

February 2024 saw dramatic shifts in specific crime categories, with drugs-related offences surging by 300% (from 1 to 4 cases) — the most significant increase in the month. Shoplifting also rose sharply, jumping 214.3% to 22 incidents, a rate of 0.9 per 1,000 residents, 67% above the UK average of 0.5. This anomaly contrasts with the broader trend of reduced crime in Reigate compared to the UK, highlighting potential seasonal or localized factors. Meanwhile, burglary fell by 66.7% (from 12 to 4 cases), and other theft dropped 37.5%, suggesting temporary improvements in property crime prevention. Anti-social behaviour also decreased by 33.3% to 12 cases, though this remains below the UK average. The sharp rise in shoplifting, coupled with the UK-wide average for this category, indicates a need for targeted retail security measures. Residents may find the 214% increase in shoplifting particularly noteworthy, as it suggests a sudden shift in criminal activity that could relate to festive season residual effects or changes in enforcement priorities.

Reigate’s crime rate of 4.8 per 1,000 in February 2024 represents an 18.6% increase from the previous month’s rate of 4.1. This rise, though modest, is significant when viewed through the lens of daily crime patterns: 122 crimes over 29 days equate to roughly 4 crimes per day. For residents, this translates to a monthly exposure rate of one reported crime for every 207 people — a figure that, while low, underscores the importance of community vigilance. Compared to the UK average, Reigate remains safer, with violent crime rates 32% below the national level and anti-social behaviour 52% lower. However, the stark contrast in shoplifting figures — 67% above the UK average — highlights a unique vulnerability. The population context further illustrates this: in a town of 25,220 people, the 122 crimes represent a relatively small proportion of the population, but the concentration of certain offences (notably shoplifting) suggests localized pressures. This comparative perspective reveals a mixed picture: Reigate is generally safer than the UK average, but specific crime types require targeted attention to prevent further escalation.