Fence Houses, a built-up area within Sunderland, recorded a crime rate of 7.1 per 1,000 residents in May 2025 — 12.3% below the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. This rate, while lower than the national figure, masks a concerning trend in specific crime categories. Violence and sexual offences (14 incidents, 36.8% of total) and anti-social behaviour (6 incidents, 15.8%) remained the most common crimes, though the latter fell by 25% compared to the previous month. The seasonal context of May — with its extended evenings, bank holidays, and increased outdoor socialising — likely contributed to the rise in vehicle crime (+200%) and other theft (+150%), both of which exceeded UK averages by 50% and 70%, respectively. These increases may be tied to the area’s urban character, where higher foot traffic and transient populations could exacerbate opportunities for theft. Meanwhile, the overall decline in violence and sexual offences (down 17.6%) suggests potential success in targeted policing or community initiatives. The 12.3% gap from the UK average highlights Fence Houses’ relatively safer profile, but the sharp upward trends in certain categories indicate the need for ongoing monitoring. As May’s longer days give way to summer, local authorities and residents must remain alert to the evolving crime profile, particularly in areas with high vehicle turnover or transient populations.