Wem Crime Rate

Wem's crime rate of 61.4 per 1,000 residents is 32.6% below the UK average, making it one of the safer areas in Shropshire. Notably, its property crime rate is 46.9% below the UK average, despite a 47% annual increase in anti-social behaviour. This combination of low property crime and stable overall rates highlights Wem's unique safety profile compared to other built-up areas.

Wem is a built-up area in Shropshire with a population of 6,299. Its character as a smaller commuter town with a mix of residential and commercial zones likely influences its crime profile. Lower property crime rates may reflect fewer high-value assets or effective community policing. The area's proximity to rural areas and limited nightlife could also contribute to lower violent crime compared to larger urban centres.

Wem's most surprising finding is that violence and sexual offences are 23% below the UK average (24.9 vs 32.2 per 1,000). This likely reflects the area's smaller population and limited nightlife compared to larger cities. Anti-social behaviour, while rising by 47% YoY, remains 13% below the UK average, possibly due to community cohesion. Property crime is strikingly low at 17.0 per 1,000 (46.9% below UK average), which may stem from fewer retail spaces and a quieter residential character. The sharp rise in robbery (+100% YoY) despite remaining below average remains unexplained by available data but warrants closer monitoring.

Wem's overall crime rate remained stable (-1.5% YoY) from Feb 2025 to Jan 2026. The most notable change was a 100% increase in robbery, though it remains 73% below the UK average. Anti-social behaviour rose by 47% YoY, possibly due to seasonal factors or localised issues. Property crime decreased by 26.3% YoY, and shoplifting fell by 19.4% YoY. Monthly trends showed a sharp peak in November (7.8 per 1,000/month), likely influenced by holiday-related activity, followed by a drop in December.

How To Keep Safe in Wem

Avoid isolated areas after dark, especially in the evening when burglaries peak (21%). Secure vehicles in well-lit car parks to counteract the 22% nighttime vehicle crime spike. Report any suspicious behaviour promptly, given the 47% increase in anti-social behaviour. Use well-lit routes when walking, particularly in the afternoon when theft rates are higher (32%). Community engagement with local initiatives can further support Wem's already low crime profile.

Crime in Wem shows distinct patterns: burglaries peak in the evening (21%) and night (27%), aligning with reduced household presence. Theft occurs most frequently in the afternoon (32%), possibly linked to retail activity. Vehicle crime spikes at night (22%), likely due to unoccupied parking areas. Other crimes dominate during late-night hours (45%), suggesting unaddressed issues in nocturnal activity. These patterns mirror Wem's character as a smaller town with limited 24/7 commercial activity.

Wem's crime rate (61.4 per 1,000) is 36% higher than nearby Prees (45.3 per 1,000), though both areas remain below the UK average. Prees' lower rate may reflect smaller population size or different economic structures. Wem's proximity to larger towns like Shrewsbury could contribute to its relatively higher crime rates compared to more rural areas.

Home security in Wem should focus on proactive measures given the area's low property crime rate (17.0 per 1,000). scOS's multi-camera monitoring can provide coverage for residential areas, while its DVLA verification feature could deter vehicle-related crimes (1.4 per 1,000). The system's behavioural pattern learning could reduce false alarms for anti-social behaviour, which has risen by 47% YoY. Visible security equipment may also act as a deterrent for the small but increasing robbery rate.