Oakham Crime Rate April 2023 | Monthly Statistics

April 2023 saw Oakham maintain a crime rate of 2.5 per 1,000 residents, a figure 66.7% below the UK average of 7.5 per 1,000. Despite this overall low level, the month highlighted specific trends warranting attention. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 19.4% of all crimes, with 7 incidents reported, while anti-social behaviour and public order offences each contributed over 13% of the total. These figures, though significantly lower than UK averages, suggest a shift in local patterns. Seasonal factors may partly explain the dynamics, as spring weather and the Easter period typically increase foot traffic in the built-up area of Rutland. The relatively low property crime rate compared to violent crime contrasts with national trends, where property crimes often dominate. This may reflect Oakham’s character as a smaller, more tightly knit community where social interactions are more visible, deterring certain types of crime. However, the data also reveals areas of concern: violent crime, while lower than the UK average, showed a 41.7% month-on-month decline from 12 to 7, which could indicate temporary disruptions rather than a sustained trend. The seasonal context of April—Easter celebrations, warmer weather, and increased outdoor activity—may have influenced both the types and frequencies of crimes reported.

April 2023 marked sharp increases in specific crime categories, with theft from the person, anti-social behaviour, and vehicle crime each rising by 100% compared to March. Theft from the person, which had not occurred in March, now accounts for 2.8% of all crimes, a figure that may raise concerns for residents frequenting public spaces. Anti-social behaviour, which includes noise disturbances and disorderly conduct, doubled to six incidents, likely linked to the Easter period and increased social gatherings. Vehicle crime, which had been absent in March, now contributes 8.3% of total crimes, possibly due to more vehicles being parked in public areas during the holiday season. The rate of violence and sexual offences, though still 81% below the UK average, decreased by 41.7% from 12 to 7, suggesting potential temporary factors such as reduced alcohol consumption or altered social patterns during Easter. Meanwhile, possession of weapons fell by 50%, from two to one incident, though this remains above the UK average by 43%. These fluctuations underscore the need for residents to remain vigilant, particularly in areas with higher foot traffic or during peak holiday periods. The data also shows that Oakham’s rates for anti-social behaviour and public order offences are 66% and 53% below UK averages, respectively, indicating a generally lower incidence of such crimes in this rural built-up area.

Oakham’s crime rate in April 2023 rose by 8.9% compared to March, from 2.3 to 2.5 per 1,000 residents. While this small increase may seem minor, it is important to contextualise this within the broader picture. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately one crime per day over the 30-day period, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 407 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate, though low, is a reminder that even small numbers can have local significance, especially when certain crime types spike. The population context further illustrates the scale: with 14,664 residents, the 36 total crimes reported in April represent a manageable burden, but the concentration of specific incidents—such as the 100% increase in anti-social behaviour—demands attention. Compared to the UK average, Oakham’s overall rate remains significantly lower, but the month-on-month rise highlights the importance of monitoring local trends. Residents should note that while the rate is still far below national levels, the recent increases in theft and anti-social behaviour may indicate emerging challenges that warrant awareness and proactive community engagement.