Takeley and Little Canfield Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Takeley and Little Canfield recorded a crime rate of 12.3 per 1,000 residents in February 2026, placing the area 92.2% above the UK average of 6.4. This stark disparity reflects the area’s unique characteristics as a built-up region within Uttlesford, where a mix of residential and commercial spaces may contribute to higher rates of property-related crime. The most prevalent crimes were other theft (21 incidents, 22.1% of total), shoplifting (13 incidents, 13.7%), and anti-social behaviour (13 incidents, 13.7%), all of which significantly exceed national averages. The seasonal context of February—a winter month with lower outdoor activity—may partly explain the pre-spring lull in violent crime, as evidenced by the 31% below UK average rate for violence and sexual offences (1.6 per 1,000). However, the area’s elevated levels of property crime, particularly vehicle crime (157% above UK average) and burglary (220% above UK average), suggest systemic vulnerabilities. These patterns could be linked to the area’s proximity to transport routes or retail hubs, which may attract opportunistic offenders. While the overall crime rate has declined by 26.4% compared to January, the persistent gap relative to national benchmarks indicates a need for sustained community policing and targeted interventions to address the root causes of these disparities.

February 2026 witnessed a dramatic 133.3% increase in vehicle crime, the most significant month-on-month swing, with incidents rising from 3 to 7. This jump, coupled with a 100% rise in burglary and theft from the person, suggests a shift in criminal focus toward property-related offences. These increases contrast sharply with the 58.6% decline in violence and sexual offences, which fell from 29 to 12, possibly reflecting seasonal factors such as reduced public gatherings. Vehicle crime in Takeley and Little Canfield is 157% above the UK average (0.3 per 1,000), highlighting a local vulnerability. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour and shoplifting remain persistent issues, with rates 87% and 193% above national averages respectively. Residents may find the 33% drop in criminal damage and arson—falling from 6 to 2—particularly noteworthy, as it may indicate improved community engagement or seasonal inactivity. The stark divergence between property crime surges and violent crime declines underscores the need for targeted interventions in vehicle-related incidents and burglary prevention.

The crime rate in February 2026 (12.3 per 1,000) marks a 26.4% decline from the previous month’s rate of 16.7 per 1,000, reflecting a notable shift in local crime dynamics. This reduction aligns with the typical seasonal lull in winter months, where lower outdoor activity may limit opportunities for certain crimes. On a daily basis, the area recorded an average of 3 crimes per day over the 28-day period, translating to one reported crime for every 81 residents over the month. This monthly exposure figure underscores the persistent presence of crime in Takeley and Little Canfield, even as overall rates decline. While the drop in violent crime—particularly a 58.6% decrease in violence and sexual offences—suggests a temporary easing of tensions, the sharp rise in property-related crimes (vehicle crime up 133.3%) indicates shifting patterns. These figures highlight the need for residents to remain vigilant, especially as property crime remains significantly above the UK average. The contrast between the 26.4% monthly reduction and the continued elevation of crime rates relative to national benchmarks illustrates the combination of local conditions and broader trends.