Torfaen Crime Rate

The annual crime rate in Torfaen, a Local Authority District in Wales, stands at 75.5 incidents per 1,000 residents as of January 2026. This figure is notably 17.2% below the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, suggesting a comparatively safer environment. However, understanding the specific crime types and recent trends is crucial for assessing overall safety. The district has experienced a significant decrease in crime overall, with a -37.9% year-on-year reduction, indicating a positive shift in the area’s safety landscape.

Torfaen is a Local Authority District in Wales, characterised by a mix of urban and rural areas. The district’s demographics contribute to its crime statistics; a blend of established communities and more transient populations can influence local safety. The presence of key amenities and transport links attracts activity, which, while beneficial for the local economy, can also present opportunities for crime. The diverse landscape, including both densely populated areas and more isolated rural locations, results in varying crime rates across the district. For example, rural Torfaen shows a higher crime rate of 114.5 per 1,000 compared to the safer area of Ponthir at 27.1 per 1,000.

While Torfaen boasts a lower overall crime rate than the UK average, certain crime types contribute significantly to the statistics. Violence and sexual offences represent the largest portion, accounting for 2622 crimes, or 27.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is also prevalent with 1422 incidents, followed by public order offences at 734. Property crime in Torfaen totals 20.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, a figure influenced by burglary (2.3 per 1,000), criminal damage (7.5 per 1,000), and other theft (3.4 per 1,000). Understanding these specific categories is vital for targeted safety measures.

The most striking aspect of Torfaen’s crime data is the significant downward trend. Crime has decreased by a substantial 37.9% year-on-year. This decrease is reflected across several crime categories, including a -42.5% decrease in violence and sexual offences, a -41.6% drop in burglaries, and a -31.4% reduction in shoplifting. While monthly data shows a peak in August 2025 with 12.3 incidents per 1,000, November and January 2026 saw a remarkably low 0.1 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a potentially seasonal pattern or the impact of ongoing safety initiatives.

Comparing Torfaen with neighbouring local authorities reveals a varied landscape of crime rates. Blaenau Gwent has a higher crime rate at 87.4 per 1,000, while Monmouthshire boasts a significantly lower rate of 46.2 per 1,000. Newport’s crime rate is slightly higher than Torfaen at 78.7 per 1,000, while Merthyr Tydfil presents a considerably elevated rate of 111.2 per 1,000, highlighting the varied safety profiles within the region.

Traditional CCTV systems often record crime after it has occurred. Consider a proactive security solution like scOS. scOS uses AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary, such as unfamiliar vehicles or individuals. It leverages multi-camera intelligence to watch all cameras simultaneously, offering a level of vigilance that traditional systems simply cannot match. The visible presence of scOS acts as a significant deterrent, making that crucial 60-second decision for potential intruders to move on.

How To Keep Safe in Torfaen

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas, particularly at night, is paramount. Consider travelling with a companion whenever possible. With burglary rates at 2.3 per 1,000, ensure your home is securely locked and consider installing an alarm system. Public order offences also occur, so be mindful of your behaviour in public spaces and avoid confrontations. Finally, with anti-social behaviour a concern, report any incidents you witness to the local authorities.