Billingham Crime Rate October 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Violence and sexual offences dominated Billingham’s crime profile in October 2023, accounting for 30.3% of all reported crimes. This category, at 3.4 per 1,000 residents, was 26% above the UK average, underscoring a significant local challenge. The area’s overall crime rate of 11.3 per 1,000—41.3% higher than the UK’s 8.0—reflects a combination of factors, including the prominence of anti-social behaviour (20.4% of total crimes) and criminal damage and arson (14.4%). These figures align with Billingham’s status as a built-up area within Stockton-on-Tees, where urban density and community dynamics may contribute to higher rates of public order and property-related crimes. Seasonal factors in October, such as darker evenings and the Halloween period, likely amplified certain trends. For instance, the rise in anti-social behaviour could be tied to increased social activity in public spaces during the month, while the persistent prevalence of criminal damage may indicate ongoing issues with vandalism or neglect in local infrastructure. The data also reveals that shoplifting, though lower than the UK average, saw a slight decline, influenced by heightened police presence or seasonal retail activity. However, the sharp increase in 'other crime'—a category that may encompass fraud or cybercrime—suggests evolving challenges that require targeted responses. These patterns highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of Billingham’s unique context, where urban characteristics and seasonal rhythms intersect to shape crime trends.

Violence and sexual offences remained the dominant crime category, accounting for 30.3% of all incidents in October 2023. This figure is 26% above the UK average of 2.7 per 1,000, highlighting a stark local contrast. The month-on-month data reveals a striking 116.7% increase in 'other crime' cases, rising from 6 to 13 incidents—a jump that could reflect underreported or newly emerging criminal activities. Conversely, shoplifting saw a modest 6.7% decline, dropping from 15 to 14 cases, though it remains 31% below the UK average of 0.6 per 1,000. Anti-social behaviour also stood out, with 78 incidents recorded, 80% above the UK average. This category’s prominence may be linked to Billingham’s urban character, where public spaces and community interactions can both foster and exacerbate such behaviour. Theft from the person rose by 100% compared to the previous month, a single incident that, while small in number, signals a potential shift in criminal focus towards personal property.

Billingham's crime rate in October 2023 rose 17.2% compared to the previous month, reflecting a shift in crime patterns. Over 31 days, the area recorded 12 crimes per day on average, a figure that underscores the daily presence of criminal activity in local communities. This equates to one reported crime for every 89 residents over the course of the month, a measure that provides context for how frequently crime intersects with daily life in Billingham. When compared to the UK average, the area's rate remains significantly higher, though the month-on-month increase highlights a recent acceleration in reported incidents. The population context further illustrates the scale: with 34,045 residents, even a small percentage increase translates to hundreds of additional crimes. This data suggests that local conditions—whether environmental, social, or seasonal—are interacting in ways that may amplify existing trends. The comparison to the previous month’s rate of 9.6 per 1,000 reinforces the need for continued monitoring, particularly as October’s darker evenings and seasonal events may have contributed to the upward movement.