Billingham Crime Rate May 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Billingham's crime rate in May 2023 stood at 12.3 per 1,000, 53.8% above the UK average of 8.0 per 1,000. This stark deviation from national norms underscores a unique local context, where violent and anti-social offences dominate. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 37.1% of all reported crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (17.7%) and criminal damage and arson (9.1%). These figures reflect a community grappling with persistent issues of aggression and disorder, which may be linked to the area's urban-industrial character and seasonal factors such as extended evenings and increased socialising. The seasonal context of May—marked by bank holidays and warmer weather—likely contributes to higher levels of outdoor activity and associated risks. While property crimes like burglary and vehicle crime remained relatively low, the disproportionate prevalence of violent offences suggests a need for targeted interventions. The data also reveals a curious contrast: shoplifting decreased by 35.7% compared to previous months, possibly due to reduced retail activity or heightened awareness among businesses. This decline, however, is overshadowed by the sharp rise in robbery and weapon possession, which may indicate shifting patterns of criminal behaviour or increased vulnerability in certain areas. The overall picture illustrates a combination of local demographics, environmental factors, and seasonal influences, all of which shape the crime profile of Billingham.

May 2023 saw sharp increases in robbery (+200%) and possession of weapons (+200%), with three incidents each. This spike in violent crime contrasts with a 35.7% decline in shoplifting, likely influenced by seasonal factors such as longer evenings and bank holidays. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category, accounting for 37.1% of all crimes, 65% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour also surged, with 74 incidents reported—65% above the national average. These figures highlight a stark imbalance in the crime mix, where violent and disruptive offences dominate over property-related crimes. For residents, the 200% rise in robbery underscores a need for heightened vigilance, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or during late-night hours. The contrast between rising violent crime and falling shoplifting suggests that seasonal patterns and local dynamics are at play.

Billingham's crime rate remained stable at 12.3 per 1,000 in May 2023, a 0.7% increase from April's 12.2 per 1,000. This consistency suggests no major short-term shifts in overall crime trends. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 13 crimes per day, reflecting the persistent nature of local crime patterns. Over the course of the month, one crime was reported for every 81 residents, highlighting the frequency of incidents in a community of 34,045. This monthly exposure rate places Billingham in a category where residents face a higher risk than the UK average, though the stability in rates indicates that efforts to manage crime may be having some effect. The population context further underscores that these figures are concentrated in a relatively small geographic area, where community policing and local initiatives may play a role in mitigating risks.