Stratford-on-Avon Crime Rate April 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Stratford-on-Avon’s crime rate in April 2024 stood at 5.6 per 1,000 residents, 27.3% below the UK average of 7.7. This figure, while lower than the national benchmark, reflects a combination of local characteristics and seasonal trends. The area’s crime profile is dominated by violent and sexual offences (32.7% of total crimes) and anti-social behaviour (17.3%), both significantly below UK averages. These patterns align with Stratford’s identity as a historic town with a strong retail and tourism sector, where public spaces are frequently used by visitors and locals alike. The spring weather and Easter holidays likely contributed to increased foot traffic and outdoor activity, potentially influencing crime dynamics. However, the data also reveals a marked seasonal shift: property crimes, which account for 37.8% of total incidents, are lower than the UK average, suggesting a combination of effective local policing and community engagement. The absence of significant spikes in vehicle crime or burglary further underscores the town’s generally low-risk profile. While the overall rate remains stable compared to previous months, the dominance of violent crimes over property offences contrasts with the UK’s more balanced distribution, highlighting Stratford’s unique socio-economic and geographical context. The area’s proximity to Shakespeare’s birthplace and its role as a cultural hub may contribute to a distinct crime picture, where public order and interpersonal disputes take precedence over economic crimes.

April 2024 saw a dramatic 166.7% increase in bicycle theft, rising from 3 to 8 incidents. This surge, coupled with a 100% rise in theft from the person, points to heightened opportunities during the Easter period and increased outdoor activity. Meanwhile, robbery fell by 66.7%, from 3 to 1, suggesting a possible shift in criminal focus away from high-risk targets. The breakdown of crime types reveals a stark contrast to UK averages: violence and sexual offences in Stratford are 30% below the national rate, while possession of weapons is 43% above. This anomaly may reflect local enforcement priorities or demographic factors. For residents, the 166.7% jump in bicycle theft highlights a specific risk, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or near educational institutions. The overall crime mix remains heavily weighted towards violent and anti-social crimes, which account for over 49% of all incidents, contrasting with the UK’s broader distribution.

Stratford-on-Avon’s crime rate in April 2024 rose 12.0% compared to March, moving from 5.0 to 5.6 per 1,000 residents. This increase, though modest, reflects a broader trend in seasonal fluctuations typical of this area. With 27 crimes reported daily on average, the monthly exposure of one crime for every 179 residents underscores the need for continued vigilance. When contextualised against the population of 146,258, this rate remains significantly lower than the UK average, highlighting Stratford’s generally safer profile. The shift in crime types between March and April reveals a nuanced picture: while anti-social behaviour and violence remain dominant, the sharp rise in bicycle theft and theft from the person suggests new dynamics at play. These changes align with the area’s seasonal rhythm, as spring weather and Easter activities likely influence outdoor activity patterns and potential vulnerabilities. The comparison to UK averages further reinforces Stratford’s position as a low-crime locality, though the upward trend in specific categories warrants attention.