Cottenham Crime Rate December 2025 | Monthly Statistics

December 2025 marked an unusual contrast in Cottenham's crime profile, with bicycle theft emerging as the most striking outlier. At 0.2 per 1,000 residents, this category was 300% above the UK average, far outpacing other local crime types. This anomaly may be tied to seasonal factors such as increased cycling during Christmas shopping or the temporary presence of bikes in the area. The overall crime rate of 3.5 per 1,000 remained 50% below the UK average, a consistent trend reflecting Cottenham's built-up character within South Cambridgeshire. Violence and sexual offences (8 incidents, 33.3% of total crimes) were the most common category, yet still 53% below the UK average, likely influenced by the area's relatively small population and community dynamics. Anti-social behaviour (3 incidents) and burglary (3 incidents) followed, with the latter exceeding the UK average by 43%. The low rate of vehicle crime (0.2 per 1,000) and public order offences (0.2 per 1,000) aligns with the area's compact nature, where high visibility and community engagement may deter such incidents. December's dark evenings and holiday season likely amplified risks for certain crimes, such as burglary, while also reducing opportunities for others, such as shoplifting (0.2 per 1,000, 65% below the UK average). The data suggests that Cottenham's crime profile is shaped by its status as a built-up area within a rural district, where low population density and strong local networks contribute to a generally safer environment. However, the spike in bicycle theft highlights the need for targeted measures during peak seasonal periods.

December 2025 saw several notable shifts in crime patterns. Possession of weapons, other crime, and bicycle theft each increased by 100% compared to November, driven by a single reported incident in each category. This surge in bicycle theft—300% above the UK average—may relate to seasonal factors, such as increased cycling during festive shopping or the movement of bikes in and out of the area. Meanwhile, vehicle crime and criminal damage and arson both fell by 50%, possibly linked to reduced outdoor activity during colder evenings or fewer unattended vehicles. Violence and sexual offences, the most common category (8 incidents), remained 53% below the UK average, a trend consistent with Cottenham's overall safety profile. For residents, the 100% increase in bicycle theft underscores the need for heightened vigilance during the holiday season, despite the area's generally low crime rate.

Cottenham's crime rate in December 2025 remained stable at 3.5 per 1,000 residents, matching the rate recorded in November. This consistency suggests no immediate spikes or declines in overall criminal activity, though local factors may still influence specific categories. On a daily basis, the area experienced roughly one reported crime per day over the 31-day period, a figure that translates to a monthly exposure of one crime for every 287 residents. Considering the population of 6,881, this rate positions Cottenham as significantly safer than the UK average, where residents face a crime rate nearly double (7.0 per 1,000). The low frequency of incidents per capita may reflect the built-up area's characteristics, such as compact residential zones or community-focused policing initiatives. While causality, the stability in rates could indicate effective local crime prevention strategies or seasonal factors that balance out activity levels.