Harleston Crime Rate June 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Harleston's crime rate of 4.0 per 1,000 residents in June 2024 places it 51.2% below the UK average of 8.2 per 1,000, marking one of the most significant disparities between local and national crime trends. This built-up area within South Norfolk exhibits a crime profile dominated by violent offences, which accounted for 66.7% of all reported incidents (14 cases), followed by anti-social behaviour (14.3%) and burglary (4.8%). The stark contrast with the UK average highlights Harleston's relatively safer environment, though the high proportion of violent crime suggests unique local factors. June, the start of summer, typically sees increased foot traffic and extended daylight hours, which may influence crime patterns in a market town with a mix of residential and retail areas. While property crimes remain low (2 total), the dominance of violent incidents—particularly violence and sexual offences—aligns with patterns seen in smaller communities where interpersonal conflicts may escalate more readily. The UK average for violence and sexual offences is 2.8 per 1,000, meaning Harleston's rate (2.7 per 1,000) is nearly on par with the national benchmark. This suggests that while Harleston is significantly safer overall, its violent crime rate mirrors the UK's average for this category. Seasonal factors may further shape these trends, as tourism in nearby rural areas and the arrival of summer activities could impact local dynamics. The low levels of property crime, including burglary (0.2 per 1,000) and criminal damage (0.2 per 1,000), both well below UK averages, indicate effective community policing or environmental deterrents in place.

June 2024 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with drugs-related offences doubling from 0 to 1 and public order incidents also rising by 100% (0 to 1). Anti-social behaviour increased by 50%, climbing from 2 to 3 cases, though this remains significantly below the UK average of 1.4 per 1,000 (57% below). Conversely, burglary and criminal damage and arson both fell by 50%, declining from 2 to 1 each—a reduction that may reflect seasonal adjustments, such as increased community vigilance during longer daylight hours. The violent crime category, while remaining the largest share of total incidents (66.7%), is 2% below the UK average for violence and sexual offences (2.8 per 1,000 vs 2.7 per 1,000 in Harleston). This suggests that while Harleston's violent crime rate is broadly in line with national trends, its overall safety profile is still markedly better. A resident might find the 50% drop in burglary particularly relevant, as it could indicate improved security measures or reduced opportunities for such crimes during the summer months. The absence of property crimes in categories like vehicle crime or theft from the person—common in tourist areas—further underscores Harleston's distinct character compared to coastal or urban centres.

Harleston's crime rate in June 2024 (4.0 per 1,000) represents a 10.6% increase from the previous month's rate of 3.6 per 1,000, though this remains far below the UK average. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly 1 crime per day over the 30-day period, a figure that may seem high in absolute terms but is proportionally minuscule given Harleston's population of 5,276. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 251 residents—a monthly exposure rate that is exceptionally low compared to national benchmarks. This statistic, when contextualised, illustrates that the likelihood of experiencing a crime in Harleston is significantly lower than in most UK areas. The population-scaled perspective reveals that even with the 10.6% month-on-month increase, the total number of crimes (21) is still dwarfed by the area's demographic size. For instance, if Harleston's crime rate were to match the UK average, it would see over 40 additional crimes in the same period. This stark contrast reinforces Harleston's position as a relatively safe community. rise from May to June suggests that local factors—such as seasonal transitions or specific events—may have temporarily influenced crime dynamics. The combination of low property crime rates and a moderate increase in violent and anti-social incidents indicates a combination of community characteristics and external influences, requiring ongoing monitoring to maintain the area's current safety profile.