Barry (Vale of Glamorgan) Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Barry's crime profile in January 2026 was marked by an unusually high rate of violence and sexual offences, which stood at 3.2 per 1,000 residents—28% above the UK average. This category alone accounted for 44.7% of all reported crimes, significantly outpacing other types. The overall crime rate of 7.1 per 1,000 residents placed the area 4.4% above the national average, though this figure must be contextualised within the area's characteristics. As a coastal town with a mix of residential and commercial zones, Barry's elevated levels of violent crime may be linked to its nightlife and public spaces, which see higher foot traffic during certain periods. Seasonal factors also played a role: January's shorter days and post-holiday period likely contributed to reduced retail activity, which could explain the 40% above UK average for shoplifting (46 incidents) and the 67% above UK average for public order offences (40 incidents). These patterns contrast with the UK's typically lower rates for these categories, suggesting that local conditions—such as the presence of multiple pubs and entertainment venues—may amplify certain types of criminal behaviour. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour remained 35% below the UK average, a figure that could reflect community policing efforts or the town's relatively cohesive social fabric. The breakdown also revealed that vehicle crime was 46% below the UK average, due to the area's lower density of car parks and the presence of dedicated parking facilities in key areas.

January 2026 saw a 325% increase in drug-related crimes, rising from 4 to 17 incidents, a spike that may reflect post-holiday social dynamics. Other crime also surged by 120%, with reported incidents doubling from 5 to 11, suggesting a broadening of criminal activity beyond traditional categories. Meanwhile, bicycle theft fell by 50% compared to December, a drop consistent with reduced outdoor activity during shorter winter days. Vehicle crime also declined by 20%, potentially linked to fewer commuters on the roads during the post-holiday period. Public order offences, however, remained elevated, at 67% above the UK average, with 40 incidents reported. This stark contrast to the 40% UK average for shoplifting indicates a combination of local factors, including the area's proximity to retail hubs and its population demographics.

Barry's crime rate in January 2026 rose to 7.1 per 1,000 residents, a 6.6% increase from December's 6.7 per 1,000. This places the area 4.4% above the UK average, though local context suggests this may reflect seasonal dynamics rather than a long-term trend. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 14 crimes per day, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 140 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate provides a tangible sense of risk for residents, though it does not account for variations in population density or local policing efforts. When compared to the previous month, the shift from property to violent crimes was notable, with violence and sexual offences accounting for 44.7% of all reported incidents. This contrasts with December, where property crimes were more prevalent, highlighting a potential seasonal realignment in criminal activity patterns.