Barry Crime Rate February 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Barry’s overall crime rate for February 2024 was 7.4 per 1,000 residents, placing it 4.2% above the UK average of 7.1. This rate, while slightly elevated nationally, reflects a combination of local factors and seasonal trends. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 36.4% of all crimes, making them the most prevalent category, followed by shoplifting (14.7%) and anti-social behaviour (12.9%). The winter month context likely contributed to this profile, with low outdoor activity and pre-spring lull potentially influencing crime patterns. Retail areas in Barry, such as the town centre, may explain the high rate of shoplifting compared to the UK average. The area’s built-up nature and population density also likely drive anti-social behaviour and public order offences, which are 84% and 5% above and below the UK average, respectively. Seasonal factors may further explain the relatively low rates of burglary and vehicle crime, which are 67% and 32% below the UK average—due to reduced outdoor activity and fewer opportunities for these crimes. While the overall rate remains above the UK average, the month-on-month decline from January highlights a potential seasonal dip in crime pressures. This data underscores the need for targeted interventions in retail and public spaces, while also noting the positive trends in drug-related and weapons-related offences. The contrast between violent crimes and property crimes also suggests a shift in criminal focus during this period, with violent incidents dominating the crime mix.

February 2024 saw a 58.3% decrease in drug-related crimes, dropping from 12 to 5 incidents. This reduction may partly explain the overall 20% monthly decline in crime rates. Concurrently, possession of weapons fell by 57.1%, from 7 to 3, suggesting a temporary easing of tensions in the area. However, shoplifting rates surged by 104% compared to the UK average, with 65 incidents reported—highlighting a persistent challenge in retail areas. Public order offences also rose sharply, 84% above the UK average, potentially linked to the area’s high foot traffic and nightlife activity. Bicycle theft doubled to 2 incidents, though this remains below the UK average for the category. The contrast between these trends—reductions in drug and weapons-related crimes versus increases in retail and public order offences—illustrates a shifting crime profile in Barry.

Barry’s crime rate in February 2024 fell by 20.0% compared to January 2024, dropping from 9.3 to 7.4 per 1,000 residents. This decline suggests a shift in criminal activity patterns during the winter months, potentially influenced by reduced outdoor activity and the pre-spring lull. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 15 crimes per day in February, a figure that contextualises the pace of incidents for local residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 135 residents, a monthly exposure rate that aligns with the area’s built-up character and population density. While this rate is slightly above the UK average, the month-on-month reduction underscores a potential seasonal trend, with crime pressures easing as the year progresses. The population-scaled perspective also highlights that Barry’s crime profile remains distinct from broader UK patterns, with specific categories such as shoplifting and public order offences significantly exceeding national averages.