Long Wittenham Crime Rate

Long Wittenham is a very safe area with a crime rate of 46.8 per 1,000, 48.6% below the UK average. Despite a 45.5% year-on-year increase in overall crime, the area remains significantly safer than the national average. The most notable trend is the 300% surge in criminal damage and arson, which has sharply risen but still remains 56% below the UK average. This data highlights a complex picture of rising specific crimes amid an overall low-risk profile.

Long Wittenham is a small built-up area in South Oxfordshire, characterised by its proximity to Oxford and a mix of rural and commuter-oriented features. With a population of 1,368, it benefits from a tight-knit community and lower population density, which may contribute to its overall safety. Its location near major transport routes and rural surroundings could influence property crime patterns, particularly around commuter parking areas.

The most surprising finding is the 300% year-on-year increase in criminal damage and arson, which remains 56% below the UK average. This sharp rise may be linked to isolated incidents or seasonal factors, such as increased outdoor activity in warmer months. Violence and sexual offences, though rising by 65% YoY, remain 36% below the UK average—likely due to the area’s low population density and community cohesion. Anti-social behaviour has surged by 233% YoY, possibly reflecting heightened local tensions or transient populations. Property crime, however, is low, with vehicle crime at 84% below the UK average—due to secure parking practices in a commuter-oriented area.

Crime in Long Wittenham has increased by 45.5% year-on-year, with the most dramatic rise in criminal damage and arson (+300% YoY). This sharp increase may be linked to seasonal factors, such as heightened outdoor activity in warmer months. The monthly trend shows a peak in April 2025 (6.6 per 1,000) and a dip in May 2025 (1.5 per 1,000), suggesting a seasonal pattern. Despite this, Long Wittenham remains 48.6% below the UK average, indicating that localized spikes do not outweigh the area’s overall safety.

How To Keep Safe in Long Wittenham

Residents should focus on securing vehicles, as vehicle crime, though low, has seen a 50% YoY decrease. For property crime, consider AI-powered perimeter detection to address rising anti-social behaviour. Report any signs of vandalism promptly, as criminal damage and arson have surged by 300% YoY. Community engagement can also help mitigate isolated incidents, given the area’s overall safety profile.

Crime in Long Wittenham peaks in the evening and night, with burglary rates rising to 44% during night hours (12am–6am), likely due to unoccupied homes and reduced visibility. Theft incidents drop sharply at night, aligning with fewer daytime opportunities. Vehicle crime spikes overnight, possibly tied to isolated parking spots. Afternoon hours see higher theft rates, potentially linked to unattended vehicles during peak commuting times. Weekends show elevated burglary rates, due to increased absences during evenings and nights.

Berinsfield, a nearby area, has a crime rate 31% higher than Long Wittenham (61.5 vs 46.8 per 1,000). This discrepancy may stem from Berinsfield’s larger population or more commercial activity, which can elevate crime rates. Long Wittenham’s lower density and community-focused environment likely contribute to its safer profile compared to its neighbour.

In a low-crime area like Long Wittenham, proactive security systems can help maintain safety without excessive measures. AI-powered perimeter detection, such as scOS, identifies threats before break-ins occur, aligning with the area’s low burglary rate (2.9 per 1,000). Automated lighting and speaker systems deter opportunistic crimes, which are more common in areas with rising anti-social behaviour. With a safety score of 89/100, scOS provides a proportionate level of protection tailored to Long Wittenham’s unique crime profile.