Harleston Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Harleston, covering January 2025 to December 2025, show a crime rate of 37.5 per 1,000 residents. While this is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, it's important to understand the specific types of crime occurring within the area. The safety score for Harleston stands at 90 out of 100, indicating a relatively safe environment compared to the UK average of 79. Recent trends show a decrease in crime, with a reduction of 5.3% year-on-year, suggesting a positive development for the community’s safety and wellbeing. Understanding these figures, along with the types of crimes reported, is crucial for residents and local authorities alike.

The most recent data for Harleston, covering January 2025 to December 2025, reveals a complex picture of crime. Violence and sexual offences constitute the largest proportion of recorded incidents, accounting for 48% of all crimes (95 incidents). Anti-social behaviour is the second most prevalent issue, with 25 recorded incidents. Criminal damage and arson follow closely behind at 19 incidents. Property crimes, while present, are less frequent, with burglary, shoplifting, and other theft each contributing 10 or 11 incidents respectively. The overall property crime rate stands at 11.0 per 1,000 residents. Factors contributing to crime in Harleston likely include its rural location, which can sometimes attract opportunistic offenders, and the presence of a small, close-knit community where interpersonal conflicts can escalate. The area’s demographics, primarily comprising residents of varying ages, may also play a role in the types of crimes observed.

Crime rates in Harleston have shown a consistent downward trend throughout the period from January 2025 to December 2025, decreasing by 5.3% year-on-year. Monthly data reveals fluctuations; for instance, crime rates spiked in March 2025 (4.2 per 1,000) and September 2025 (4.2 per 1,000), but remained relatively low in August 2025 (2.1 per 1,000) and November 2025 (2.1 per 1,000). The December 2025 rate (3.4 per 1,000) indicates a return to a pattern similar to that observed in January 2025 (3.4 per 1,000). This overall decline suggests that crime prevention efforts are having a positive impact on the community’s safety.

How To Keep Safe in Harleston

Given that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crimes in Harleston, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Firstly, always trust your instincts – if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. Secondly, be mindful of your personal safety when walking alone at night, particularly in areas with limited lighting. Consider walking with a friend or using well-lit routes. Thirdly, report any suspicious activity to the police immediately. Finally, secure your property by ensuring doors and windows are locked, and consider installing visible security measures like motion-sensor lights.

Crimes in Harleston tend to occur throughout the day and night, with variations in the types of crimes committed. Burglaries show a slight concentration in the afternoon (27%) and night (22%), while vehicle crime is more frequent overnight (28%). Theft tends to be more common during commercial hours, particularly in the afternoon (33%). Violence and sexual offences, though less frequent overall, are more prevalent during the evening hours (0%), particularly on weekends. The distribution of crimes reflects the activities and routines of the community and highlights the importance of vigilance at all times.

Compared to Harleston, neighbouring areas such as Needham, Wortwell, Pulham St Mary, and Alburgh Street have recorded no crimes during the same period. This stark contrast highlights Harleston’s slightly elevated crime levels compared to these exceptionally safe rural communities. While Harleston’s crime rate remains considerably lower than the UK average, the significant difference with these nearby areas underscores the importance of continued vigilance and proactive crime prevention measures within Harleston itself.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred. scOS, however, operates differently. It uses AI to detect potential threats at the property boundary – a vehicle loitering, a person approaching suspiciously – before any break-in happens. The system’s multi-camera intelligence means it constantly monitors all cameras, never missing a detail. The DVLA vehicle verification feature instantly identifies fake number plates, a common tactic used by opportunistic criminals. For residents of Harleston, where property crime remains a concern, scOS offers a proactive layer of protection. The visible presence of scOS, with its strategically placed cameras and perimeter sensors, acts as a powerful deterrent – most burglars decide within those critical first 60 seconds. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively preventing crime at your property line is another.