Cottenham Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Cottenham's crime rate in February 2026 stood at 5.7 per 1,000 residents, placing the area 10.9% below the UK average of 6.4. This figure, while relatively low, masks a combination of rising and falling crime categories that reflect both local conditions and broader seasonal trends. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 25.6% of all reported crimes, the highest share, though this category remained 35% below the UK average. This contrast with the sharp 161% increase in criminal damage and arson, which rose from 3 to 8 incidents, suggests a possible shift in criminal activity towards property-related offences. The seasonal context of February—a winter month with low outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—may contribute to this pattern, as reduced daylight and colder temperatures could concentrate interactions in enclosed spaces. Anti-social behaviour, at 18.0% of total crimes, also rose slightly above the UK average, hinting at potential tensions in community spaces. The overall rate, however, remains lower than the national benchmark, indicating that local factors such as community engagement or policing strategies may be mitigating broader risks. The data also shows that shoplifting and other theft were significantly below UK averages, a trend consistent with Cottenham's built-up area status, which likely has fewer retail outlets than larger urban centres. These patterns underscore the importance of contextual analysis in understanding crime trends, rather than relying solely on aggregated figures.

February 2026 saw a dramatic 166.7% rise in criminal damage and arson, with incidents jumping from 3 to 8. This surge, coupled with a 100% increase in drug-related crimes and vehicle crime, points to emerging risks in the area. While violent crimes remained at 10 (25.6% of total), they were 35% below the UK average, suggesting local factors may be mitigating such incidents. Shoplifting fell 66% below the UK average, a trend consistent with Cottenham's low retail density. The 50% drop in burglary from 6 to 3 cases offers a counterpoint. Residents should be particularly alert to the sharp rise in property damage, which may reflect seasonal factors or unaddressed community tensions. The absence of significant increases in theft from the person or violent crimes contrasts with the UK-wide patterns, indicating that Cottenham's unique demographics or infrastructure may be influencing these outcomes.

Cottenham's crime rate in February 2026 rose 50% from the previous month, moving from 3.8 to 5.7 per 1,000 residents. This increase, though still below the UK average of 6.4, signals a shift in local patterns. On a daily basis, the area experienced roughly one reported crime every 28 days, a figure that may feel more tangible for residents navigating public spaces. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for every 176 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the need for vigilance in community interactions. This rise follows a seasonal context typical of winter months, when reduced outdoor activity may concentrate risks in fewer locations. The population context highlights that even small increases in crime rates can translate to noticeable changes in a close-knit area like Cottenham, where community ties often influence perceptions of safety. Comparisons to the UK average must be viewed cautiously, as local factors such as community engagement and policing strategies can significantly shape outcomes independent of national trends.