Wallingford Crime Rate March 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Wallingford's crime rate in March 2024 remained significantly below the UK average, with 4.9 crimes per 1,000 residents—36.4% lower than the national figure of 7.7. This continued safety reflects a combination of local factors, including the area's built-up character within South Oxfordshire and its relatively low population density. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 38.1% of all reported crimes, the highest single category, though this rate was 29% below the UK average. Public order and anti-social behaviour each contributed 9.5% of crimes, both significantly below national benchmarks. The seasonal transition to spring may have influenced patterns, with longer evenings potentially increasing opportunities for violent crime. However, the area's low crime profile overall suggests effective community policing and a generally peaceful environment. Property crimes, including burglary and theft, accounted for 47.6% of all incidents, though burglary rates were higher than the UK average. This divergence may be linked to Wallingford's proximity to Oxford University, where transient populations could contribute to property-related offences. The data also highlights a stark contrast in specific categories: bicycle theft was 471% above the UK average, while criminal damage and arson were 66% below. These variations illustrate the need for targeted strategies, such as increased cycle parking infrastructure or community engagement initiatives to address local vulnerabilities.

March 2024 saw a 300% increase in burglary incidents, rising from 1 to 4 cases. This surge may reflect seasonal factors, such as longer evenings and increased foot traffic in the town centre during spring. Bicycle theft also spiked by 200%, with three reported incidents, a figure that is 471% above the UK average of 0.1 per 1,000. This anomaly could be linked to Wallingford's proximity to Oxford University, where student populations often cycle to and from the area. Conversely, criminal damage and arson fell by 71.4%, from 7 to 2 cases, due to reduced vandalism during the milder spring months. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category, contributing 38.1% of all crimes, but this rate was 29% below the UK average. The data illustrates a combination of local demographics and seasonal shifts, with some categories showing stark divergence from national trends.

Wallingford's crime rate in March 2024 rose 16.7% compared to February's 4.2 per 1,000, reflecting a slight upward trend in reported incidents. However, this remains 36.4% below the UK average of 7.7 per 1,000, underscoring the area's continued relative safety. Daily crime statistics show one incident reported per day in March, a figure that, while low, highlights the persistent presence of crime in the local community. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for roughly every 205 residents, a monthly exposure rate that suggests most residents are unaffected by direct criminal activity. When viewed against Wallingford's population of 8,606, the 42 total crimes represent a small proportion of the community, though the rise from February indicates the need for ongoing vigilance. The area's built-up character within South Oxfordshire likely contributes to its crime profile, with a mix of residential and commercial spaces creating opportunities for both property and violent crimes.