Telford's built-up area recorded a crime rate of 8.2 per 1,000 residents in September 2024, placing it 6.5% above the UK average of 7.7. This figure reflects a persistent challenge for local authorities, with violent crimes accounting for 38.3% of all reported incidents—making them the most prevalent category. Violence and sexual offences, at 3.1 per 1,000, were 18% higher than the UK average, a concerning trend that may be influenced by the return of students to local universities and the start of the academic term. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, contributing 13.4% of total crimes, though it remained 6% below the UK average. Shoplifting also emerged as a significant concern, with a rate of 0.9 per 1,000—32% above the UK average. This could be attributed to the high footfall in retail areas during the post-summer period and the influx of new students. Seasonal factors, such as the transition from summer to autumn and the start of the academic year, likely play a role in shaping these patterns. The presence of a large population base (163,463 residents) means that even relatively low rates can translate into a significant number of incidents, with 1341 crimes reported across the month. While the overall rate remained stable compared to August, the composition of crime types highlights areas for targeted policing and community engagement. The data underscores the need for continued investment in crime prevention strategies, particularly in sectors where Telford's rates significantly exceed the national average.