Stevenage Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Stevenage's crime rate in January 2026 stood at 9.1 per 1,000 residents, placing the area 33.8% above the UK average of 6.8. This figure reflects a combination of local factors and broader national trends, with the most significant disparity evident in the category of violence and sexual offences, which accounted for 37.4% of all reported crimes. This category alone exceeded the UK average by 36%, a gap that may be partially explained by the area's demographic profile and the presence of multiple educational institutions that contribute to a transient population. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, making up 13% of total crimes and surpassing the UK average by 29%. These patterns contrast with the relatively low rates of burglary, which were 29% below the national average. The seasonal context of January—marked by post-holiday lulls, reduced retail footfall, and shorter daylight hours—may have influenced the distribution of crimes, with property-related offences constrained by these conditions. While shoplifting and public order offences saw notable increases, the overall crime rate remained stable compared to the previous month, suggesting a balance between persistent challenges and mitigating factors. The dominance of violent crime in the area's profile indicates a need for targeted interventions, particularly in sectors where interpersonal conflict may be more prevalent. This pattern is consistent with other major urban centres where similar demographic and economic factors contribute to elevated rates of violent crime.

January 2026 saw a 300% increase in theft from the person, rising from 2 to 8 incidents. This surge, though small in absolute terms, signals a potential shift in criminal activity patterns during the post-holiday period. Robbery incidents also rose sharply by 66.7%, from 6 to 10 cases, a jump that may reflect increased foot traffic in local retail areas despite seasonal downturns. Conversely, other theft fell by 31.8% to 58 cases, possibly due to heightened security measures or seasonal retail closures. Shoplifting rates climbed 63.3% to 80 incidents, significantly exceeding the UK average by 58%. This spike may be linked to the timing of January, when reduced retail footfall could paradoxically create opportunities for targeted theft. Meanwhile, burglary remained below the UK average, with 14 incidents compared to the national rate of 0.3 per 1,000. Residents may find the 37.4% share of violent crimes particularly relevant, as this category alone exceeds the UK average by 36%.

Stevenage's crime rate in January 2026 remained stable compared to December 2025, declining by 1.5% to 9.1 per 1,000 residents from 9.3. This slight dip contrasts with the overall trend of elevated crime rates relative to the UK average. Daily crime statistics reveal 27 crimes reported each day in January, a figure that, while consistent with prior months, underscores the persistent need for community vigilance. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 110 residents, a monthly exposure rate that highlights the frequency of incidents in a population of 91,774. When viewed through a population-scaled lens, this rate suggests that crime remains a visible concern for residents, though not at levels that suggest a sharp escalation. The stability in the rate may reflect the seasonal context of January, with reduced retail activity and shorter daylight hours potentially limiting opportunities for certain types of crime.