South Bents Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in South Bents

South Bents, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 1,418, records a significantly high overall crime rate of 281.4 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is substantially higher than the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a considerably greater incidence of crime compared to the national benchmark. The property crime rate stands at 165.7 per 1,000 people, also vastly exceeding the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. South Bents holds a safety score of 49 out of 100, which is below the UK average of 78, suggesting a lower level of perceived safety. The crime trend is increasing, with a year-over-year rise of 6.7%. This introduction highlights the elevated crime statistics in South Bents, setting the context for a more detailed analysis.

Crime Type Analysis in South Bents

An analysis of crime types in South Bents reveals that Shoplifting is the most significant concern, with 171 incidents, accounting for a substantial 42.9% of total crimes at a rate of 120.6 per 1,000 people. Violence and sexual offences are the second most frequent, with 75 crimes, representing 18.8% of the total at 52.9 per 1,000. Anti-social behaviour ranks third, with 56 occurrences, comprising 14.0% of crimes at a rate of 39.5 per 1,000.

Property-related crime in South Bents, which includes burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, registers a very high rate of 165.7 per 1,000 people. This category specifically includes 16 burglaries (11.3 per 1,000), 8 vehicle crimes (5.6 per 1,000), and 19 other theft offences (13.4 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these statistics highlight the critical importance of securing properties and vehicles against opportunistic thieves. The exceptionally high rate of shoplifting and other property crime underscores the urgent need for vigilance and robust security measures to protect personal belongings and premises in South Bents.

Crime Trends in South Bents

South Bents has experienced a concerning trend in its crime statistics, showing an increasing trend with a 6.7% rise in crime year-over-year. This indicates a general worsening of the safety landscape compared to the previous 12-month period. Reviewing the monthly crime rate per 1,000, there have been significant fluctuations. The rate was 26.8 in October 2024, rising to 31.0 in November and sharply to 40.2 in December 2024. After a drop to 12.0 in January 2025, rates saw an increase, peaking at 31.7 in April 2025, before generally decreasing to 15.5 in September 2025. Despite some monthly dips, the overall annual increase suggests that crime remains a significant challenge, requiring residents to stay vigilant and consider enhanced security measures.

Crime Time Patterns in South Bents

Crime in South Bents displays distinct patterns throughout the 24-hour cycle. During the morning (6am-12pm), theft is particularly prevalent at 48%, with burglary at 19% and vehicle crime at 10%. This often coincides with increased activity as people commute. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees theft remaining high at 47%, alongside burglary at 29%, suggesting properties may be more vulnerable when unoccupied. As evening progresses (6pm-12am), miscellaneous crime becomes dominant at 41%, with burglary and theft also present. Overnight (12am-6am), vehicle crime accounts for a significant 26% of offences, alongside burglary at 36%, indicating heightened risk for parked vehicles and properties during these quieter hours. Understanding these rhythms can help residents enhance their security measures.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To provide a comprehensive understanding of local safety, South Bents' high crime statistics can be compared with several neighbouring areas. Whitburn (South Tyneside), Cleadon, East Boldon and West Boldon, and the wider Sunderland Built-Up Area are all nearby settlements that offer relevant comparisons. These areas, while geographically close, may exhibit different crime profiles due to varying demographics, urban planning, and local activities. By examining South Bents' data alongside these neighbours, residents can gain valuable regional context. This helps to illustrate how safety levels can differ even within a relatively small geographical radius, aiding in a more informed perspective on local crime rates.

Protecting Your Home in South Bents

Given South Bents' significantly high property crime rate of 165.7 per 1,000 people, which is vastly above the national average, it is critically important for residents to invest in robust and proactive home security. Traditional security solutions often provide reactive measures, such as recording footage after a break-in, which does little to prevent the crime itself. For truly effective protection, the emphasis must be on preventing crime before it occurs.

AI-powered home security operating systems, like scOS, are designed to offer proactive defence. These systems detect threats at your property's boundary, utilising multi-camera intelligence to monitor simultaneously and learn your routines. This allows for precise alerts and autonomous responses, such as activating lights or engaging speakers, which can deter potential intruders before they even attempt a break-in. In the crucial 60 seconds a burglar takes to decide, visible and intelligent deterrence can make them move on. While basic DIY systems can notify you, professional-grade, AI-driven security actively intervenes, providing a significant advantage in safeguarding your property against the prevalent property crime rates in South Bents.