Cottenham Crime Rate October 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Cottenham's crime profile in October 2023, accounting for 37.5% of all reported crimes. With 15 incidents recorded, this category far outpaced other types, a pattern consistent with the area's character as a built-up residential community with limited commercial activity. The overall crime rate of 5.8 per 1,000 residents placed Cottenham 27.5% below the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000, a disparity that likely reflects the area's relatively low population density and strong community cohesion. Seasonal factors may have contributed to the elevated violence figures, as darker evenings and Halloween activities could have increased opportunities for such crimes. Burglary and criminal damage followed as the next most common categories, though both showed distinct patterns compared to national averages. The localised nature of Cottenham's crime picture suggests that targeted interventions focused on community engagement and environmental design could help maintain this below-average performance, particularly during periods of heightened seasonal activity.

October 2023 saw a dramatic 500% increase in burglary cases, rising from 2 to 12 incidents. This surge, which placed burglary at 1.7 per 1,000 residents (400% above the UK average of 0.3 per 1,000), may be linked to increased residential activity during the school term or targeted opportunistic behaviour. Concurrently, violence and sexual offences surged by 114.3%, jumping from 7 to 15 cases, a rate of 2.2 per 1,000 that was 19% below the UK average for this category. These figures contrast sharply with the 66% drop in shoplifting (from 2 to 1 incident) and 50% reduction in vehicle crime (from 2 to 1), suggesting a combination of seasonal factors and local dynamics. Cottenham's anti-social behaviour rate of 0.4 per 1,000 was 69% below the UK average of 1.3 per 1,000, a trend that may reflect the area's low population density and strong community policing presence. Residents should be particularly aware of the burglary spike, which represents a significant departure from the area's usual patterns.

Cottenham's crime rate in October 2023 rose sharply from 3.2 per 1,000 in September to 5.8 per 1,000, marking an 81.6% increase. This surge, while significant, still keeps the area well below the UK average. On a daily basis, the localised figure of 1 crime per day in Cottenham provides context for residents, though this rate remains lower than the national average. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 172 residents, a monthly exposure rate that is among the lowest in the UK. Considering the area's population of 6,881, this translates to a manageable level of risk for local residents. The comparison with the UK average reveals both strengths and areas for concern: while Cottenham's violent crime rates are below national levels, the burglary spike highlights vulnerabilities that require targeted attention. This contrast between local and national trends underscores the importance of maintaining community-focused crime prevention strategies in Cottenham.