Paddock Wood Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

February 2026 marked a stark escalation in crime for Paddock Wood, a built-up area within Tunbridge Wells, with an overall crime rate of 12.2 per 1,000 residents — 90.6% above the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000. This figure reflects a significant divergence from national trends, particularly in property-related offences. Shoplifting emerged as the most prevalent crime, accounting for 31 incidents (31.0% of total crimes), with a rate of 3.8 per 1,000 — 555% above the UK average. This surge is consistent with the area's retail infrastructure, particularly in the town centre, where high foot traffic during winter months may contribute to targeted thefts. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, with 23 incidents (23.0% of total crimes), 208% above the UK average. These incidents often cluster in public spaces, potentially linked to the area's mix of residential and commercial zones. The sharp rise in other theft (8 incidents, 138% above the UK average) and other crime (5 incidents, 300% above the UK average) further highlights a worrying trend in property-related offences. While the seasonal context of February — a winter month with lower outdoor activity — might suggest a lull in some crimes, the data instead shows a marked increase in targeted thefts, likely driven by the area's retail presence and the transient nature of winter shoppers. The overall profile indicates a need for heightened awareness, particularly in high-traffic commercial areas.

February 2026 saw a dramatic surge in shoplifting, with incidents rising 138.5% to 31 cases — 3.8 per 1,000 residents, 555% above the UK average. This spike aligns with the area's retail presence, particularly in the town centre, where targeted thefts may be exacerbated by winter foot traffic patterns. Other theft also rose sharply, increasing 700% from 1 to 8 incidents, a figure that dwarfs the UK average by 138%. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour remained elevated at 23 cases, 208% above the national rate, suggesting ongoing challenges with public order. Violent crimes — though remaining at 23 incidents — were 21% above the UK average, indicating a persistent concern for personal safety. While some categories like public order and criminal damage fell, these decreases were relatively minor compared to the overall upward trend in crime.

Paddock Wood's crime rate in February 2026 rose sharply to 12.2 per 1,000 residents, a 56.1% increase from the previous month's 7.8 per 1,000. This places the area 90.6% above the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000, highlighting a significant divergence from national trends. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 4 crimes per day over the 28-day period, underscoring a persistent presence of criminal activity. When scaled to the population, this means that over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 82 residents. This figure, while seemingly low on a daily basis, accumulates to a notable monthly exposure rate, particularly when considering the concentration of certain crime types. The population context further emphasizes the need for vigilance, as the local rate is far higher than the national average, suggesting localized factors that may be exacerbating the situation.