For a built-up area of 7,453 residents, Dursley’s November 2024 crime rate of 8.1 per 1,000 equates to 60 reported incidents, a figure that, while seemingly low in absolute terms, places the area 6.6% above the UK average. This rate translates to roughly one crime for every 124 residents over the course of the month, a statistic that may resonate more profoundly in a close-knit community where incidents are more likely to be known to neighbours. The breakdown of crimes reveals a notable emphasis on violent and sexual offences, which accounted for 40% of all incidents, compared to the UK average of 24%. This shift suggests a higher prevalence of interpersonal crime in Dursley, possibly linked to its urban character and the presence of social hubs that may contribute to such incidents. Shoplifting, at 18.3% of all crimes, further underscores the impact of commercial activity, with the 11 reported cases far exceeding the UK average of 0.7 per 1,000. This discrepancy may be tied to Dursley’s proximity to Stroud’s retail corridors, where high foot traffic during events like Black Friday creates opportunities for theft. The seasonal context of November—marked by Bonfire Night and the early onset of darker evenings—likely exacerbates these trends, as low visibility and increased social gatherings can heighten risks of both property and violent crimes. While anti-social behaviour and public order offences decreased by 50%, this may reflect temporary factors such as the dispersal of crowds or the influence of local enforcement during the month. Overall, the data illustrates a combination of seasonal pressures, local infrastructure, and the demographics of a built-up area within a larger rural district.