Cradley Heath Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Cradley Heath

Cradley Heath records an overall crime rate of 102.9 per 1,000 people per year, which is above the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area's safety score stands at 73 out of 100, placing it moderately safe, though slightly below the UK average safety score of 78. Cradley Heath has experienced a positive trend, with a 5.8% decrease in crime year-over-year. This reduction indicates an improving safety environment within the built-up area and provides a foundation for understanding its detailed crime statistics.

Crime Breakdown in Cradley Heath

In Cradley Heath, violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type, accounting for 834 incidents, a rate of 45.7 per 1,000 residents, and making up 44.4% of all reported crimes. Criminal damage and arson is the second most common, with 163 reported cases (8.9 per 1,000), followed by anti-social behaviour at 155 incidents (8.5 per 1,000). These three categories represent the primary crime challenges for the community.

The overall property crime rate in Cradley Heath, which includes burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, stands at 36.6 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This elevated property crime rate suggests that residents and homeowners in Cradley Heath should be particularly vigilant about securing their homes, vehicles, and personal belongings to mitigate potential risks.

Crime Trends in Cradley Heath

Cradley Heath has demonstrated a positive trend in its crime rate, with a 5.8% decrease year-over-year. This reduction indicates an improvement in the area's overall safety. Examining the monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents reveals fluctuations. For instance, the rate moved from 9.1 in October 2024, dipped to 7.2 in January 2025, and then saw a temporary peak of 11.1 in July 2025, before settling at 7.3 by September 2025. Despite occasional spikes, the overall pattern suggests effective crime reduction efforts are in place, contributing to a safer environment for the community.

Time Patterns of Crime in Cradley Heath

Crime in Cradley Heath exhibits distinct hourly patterns. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are characterised by significant theft (40%) and vehicle crime (22%), reflecting activity as people commute and businesses open. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees theft peak at 46% and burglary at 16%, often coinciding with busy retail periods and unoccupied residences. In the evening (6pm-12am), "other" crime types become most prominent at 50%, with vehicle crime also high at 21%. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime dominates at 49%, with burglary also a concern at 14%, reflecting opportunities under the cover of darkness. These patterns highlight the varying risks and types of crime at different times, which can inform targeted prevention efforts.

Cradley Heath in Regional Context: Nearby Areas Comparison

Cradley Heath, with an overall crime rate of 102.9 per 1,000, can be contextualised by comparing it to its neighbouring areas. Nearby Blackheath, Halesowen, Rowley Regis, and Brierley Hill each present their own unique crime profiles. Cradley Heath's crime rate is similar to Blackheath but higher than Rowley Regis, which generally records lower figures. Comparing it to Halesowen and Brierley Hill, also urban areas, provides broader regional insight into how Cradley Heath's crime statistics fit within the wider local landscape. These comparisons help residents understand Cradley Heath's relative safety and specific challenges.

Protecting Your Property in Cradley Heath

With a property crime rate of 36.6 per 1,000 in Cradley Heath, which is higher than the UK average, residents should prioritise robust home security. Relying solely on traditional CCTV or DIY cameras often means you're merely recording a burglary as it happens, rather than preventing it. True protection comes from proactive measures.

An AI-powered home security operating system such as scOS offers advanced, preventative measures. Unlike reactive systems, scOS is engineered to detect threats at your property boundary, stopping intruders before they gain access. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures comprehensive coverage, and features like DVLA vehicle verification can identify suspicious vehicles instantly. By learning your family's routines, scOS minimises false alarms, focusing on real threats. The system's autonomous response, including activating lights and engaging speakers upon detection, is designed to destroy the element of surprise for potential burglars, making them move on within the critical 60-second decision window. Investing in such professional-grade, proactive security offers superior peace of mind for Cradley Heath homeowners.