Bexhill-on-Sea Crime Rate February 2025 | Monthly Statistics

For every 1,000 residents in Bexhill-on-Sea, 6.9 crimes were reported in February 2025, placing the area 3% above the UK average of 6.7 per 1,000. This translates to a daily risk of roughly 11 crimes per day in the built-up area, which includes the coastal town's retail core and residential zones. The most prevalent crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 36.6% of all reported incidents—nearly double the UK average for this category. Shoplifting, at 17.3% of total crimes, was 94% above the national rate, likely driven by the town's high street and tourist retail areas. Anti-social behaviour, though lower than the UK average, remained a notable concern in public spaces. Seasonal factors may partly explain these patterns: February's winter conditions and pre-spring lull could reduce outdoor activity while concentrating certain offences in indoor or high-traffic venues. The balance between property and violent crimes was relatively even, with 112 each, contrasting with UK trends where property crimes often outnumber violent ones. This equilibrium suggests a combination of local dynamics, including the area's mix of residential and commercial spaces, which may contribute to higher levels of interpersonal conflict and retail-related offences.

February 2025 saw a 100% increase in theft from the person, rising from zero to three incidents—a stark anomaly in the data. Bicycle theft also doubled, with one report recorded, potentially linked to seasonal changes in outdoor activity or the timing of local events. Public order offences surged by 38.9%, reaching 25 incidents, which may reflect the pressures of a low-activity winter month or unseasonal gatherings. Conversely, burglary rates fell by 62.5% compared to January, dropping from eight to three incidents, due to fewer outdoor opportunities for opportunistic theft. Vehicle crime also declined by 41.7%, from 12 to seven, aligning with the reduced traffic volume typical of February. Violence and sexual offences remained high, with a rate of 2.5 per 1,000—6% above the UK average—highlighting the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas. Shoplifting's 94% above-average rate underscores the vulnerability of the town's retail sector, which may require enhanced security measures or community engagement.

February's crime rate of 6.9 per 1,000 residents marked a 4.1% decline from January's 7.1 per 1,000, suggesting a temporary easing of pressure on local services. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 146 residents, a figure that contextualises risk in terms of individual exposure. Daily crime activity averaged 11 incidents per day, a rate that, while not extreme, underscores the need for vigilance in public spaces. This monthly exposure is particularly significant in a coastal town where tourism and seasonal fluctuations shape local patterns. The rate of violence and sexual offences, though elevated, remains lower than in major urban centres where such crimes often dominate. Similarly, the sharp decline in burglary and vehicle crime compared to the previous month contrasts with the UK-wide trend of slower reductions in these categories. These fluctuations reflect the unique character of Bexhill-on-Sea as a seaside resort with a distinct mix of residential and commercial activity, where crime dynamics are influenced by both local geography and national trends.