Sheerness Crime Rate December 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Sheerness' December 2025 crime rate of 18.2 per 1,000 residents represents a stark deviation from the UK average of 7.0 per 1,000, with the area's rate being 160% higher. This figure underscores the persistent challenges faced by the built-up area within Swale, which is likely influenced by its coastal location and the seasonal dynamics of the festive period. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 37.2% of all crimes, with 89 incidents reported—a rate of 6.8 per 1,000, 165% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour, at 20.1% of the total, further exacerbated the situation, with 48 cases recorded at 3.7 per 1,000, 298% above the UK norm. These trends are consistent with the seasonal context of December, where extended darkness, the Christmas shopping peak, and the closure of homes during the holidays may contribute to higher incidents of violence and property crime. The prevalence of criminal damage and arson (26 cases, 10.9% of total) and shoplifting (22 cases, 9.2%) also highlights vulnerabilities in the area's retail and residential sectors. While the overall crime rate remains alarmingly high, the seasonal context may offer some explanation for the sharp increases in certain categories, though targeted interventions will be required to address systemic issues.

December 2025 marked a sharp rise in drug-related crimes, surging by 200% from 4 to 12 incidents. This increase aligns with the seasonal context of holiday gatherings and the potential for increased illicit activity during the festive period. Conversely, other thefts fell by 28.6% (from 14 to 10), possibly reflecting heightened awareness or reduced opportunities during the Christmas shopping peak. Burglary also rose by 125%, with 9 incidents reported, suggesting a possible link to vacant homes during the holiday season. Violence and sexual offences, the most prevalent category, surged by 53.4% to 89 cases, a figure that is 165% above the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000. This stark deviation highlights the need for targeted interventions in areas with high concentrations of anti-social behaviour and public order issues. The data also reveals that vehicle crime decreased by 16.7%, a decline that may be attributed to reduced traffic during the festive season, though this remains a minor trend in the overall landscape.

Sheerness' crime rate in December 2025 rose to 18.2 per 1,000 residents, a 22.0% increase from 14.9 per 1,000 in the previous month. This brings the monthly exposure to one reported crime for roughly every 55 residents, a figure that underscores the heightened risk over the course of the month. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 8 crimes per day, a localised measure that reflects the density of incidents in a built-up area. When compared to the UK average of 7.0 per 1,000, Sheerness remains significantly above, though the rate of increase from November to December may be influenced by seasonal factors such as extended darkness and holiday-related activities. The population-scaled perspective reveals that while the rate is alarmingly high, the absolute number of crimes (239) is still relatively small compared to larger urban centres, but the concentration within a smaller built-up area amplifies local concerns.