Featherstone Crime Rate December 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Featherstone's crime rate in December 2023 stood at 9.3 per 1,000 residents, a figure 29.2% above the UK average of 7.2 per 1,000. This stark deviation from the national norm underscores the area's unique challenges, particularly in violent crime, which accounted for 50% of all reported incidents. Violence and sexual offences, at 4.6 per 1,000 residents, were 76% above the UK average — a figure that may partly reflect the seasonal context of the Christmas shopping peak and extended dark evenings, which can create conditions conducive to such crimes. Shoplifting, at 0.9 per 1,000, was 84% above the UK average, likely driven by the high footfall of retail centres during the holiday season. Other theft and public order offences also exceeded national benchmarks, suggesting a broader pattern of community tensions and property-related crime. The area's character as a built-up area within Wakefield, with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, may contribute to these trends, as retail hubs and nightlife areas often correlate with higher rates of theft and disorder. While the overall crime rate shows a slight decline from November, the persistence of violent and property crimes above UK levels indicates that residents should remain vigilant, particularly during the festive period when crime patterns can shift dramatically.

December 2023 saw a sharp increase in criminal damage and arson, which more than tripled from two to six incidents — a 200% rise. This surge aligns with seasonal patterns of empty homes and dark evenings, potentially creating opportunities for such crimes. Possession of weapons also doubled from zero to two incidents, a concerning development that may partly explain the 56% increase in violence and sexual offences. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour rose by 25%, reaching five incidents, which suggests a possible link to the party season and holiday-related tensions. Shoplifting remained high, with 11 incidents — 84% above the UK average — likely driven by Christmas shopping activity. Conversely, drugs-related crimes fell by 50%, from four to two incidents, reflecting reduced nightlife activity during the holiday period. These contrasting trends highlight the combination of seasonal factors and local dynamics in shaping crime patterns.

Featherstone's crime rate in December 2023 fell by 10.4% compared to November, dropping from 10.3 to 9.3 per 1,000 residents. This decline contrasts with the broader trend of rising violence and sexual offences, which remain 76% above the UK average. Locally, the monthly exposure figure shows that over the course of December, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 108 residents — a rate that, while lower than the previous month, still reflects a community under heightened pressure. Daily crime statistics reveal an average of four crimes reported each day in Featherstone, a figure that underscores the persistent presence of criminal activity even as overall trends show slight improvement. When viewed through the lens of population, the 12,098 residents of Featherstone face a crime risk that is both locally significant and higher than the UK norm, requiring continued vigilance from residents and local authorities.