Hemsworth Crime Rate

Hemsworth’s crime rate of 151.9 per 1,000 residents is 67% above the UK average, with robbery rates more than doubling the national figure. While crime overall has remained stable (-3.1% YoY), bicycle theft has surged by 100% in the past year, highlighting a sharp and concerning trend. These statistics underscore the need for targeted safety measures and community awareness in an area where crime patterns are shaped by socioeconomic factors and daily rhythms.

Hemsworth is a built-up area in Wakefield, characterized by its mix of residential and industrial zones. As a commuter town with a population of around 9,500, it experiences crime patterns influenced by its proximity to major transport routes and the presence of retail hubs. Socioeconomic factors, such as higher unemployment rates and aging housing stock, likely contribute to elevated property crime rates. The area’s industrial legacy may also play a role in anti-social behaviour and violence, particularly in areas with limited community engagement.

The most striking finding in Hemsworth’s crime profile is the robbery rate, which is 118% above the UK average (2.6 vs 1.2 per 1,000). This could be linked to the area’s high anti-social behaviour rates, which may create environments where direct confrontations are more likely. Violence and sexual offences, at 42.9% above the UK average, are likely exacerbated by the same factors, including socioeconomic challenges and limited community cohesion. Shoplifting, 75% above the UK average, may be driven by Hemsworth’s retail centres, which attract both local and transient populations. Burglary, 103% above the UK average, could reflect vulnerabilities in older housing stock or areas with higher foot traffic during the day.

Crime in Hemsworth has remained stable (-3.1% YoY), with no significant overall increase. However, bicycle theft has surged by 100% YoY, likely due to increased cycling activity or unsecured bike storage. Violence and sexual offences have risen by 7.3% YoY, potentially linked to socioeconomic challenges and anti-social behaviour. Conversely, burglary has fallen by 25.6% YoY, possibly due to improved home security measures. Other crimes, such as shoplifting (-10% YoY), have also decreased, suggesting targeted interventions may be having an impact.

How To Keep Safe in Hemsworth

Residents should prioritize securing valuables and using perimeter security systems to deter robbery, which is 118% above the UK average. For burglary, which is 103% above the UK average, ensure windows and doors are reinforced, and avoid leaving valuables visible. During evening hours, when vehicle crime spikes, park in well-lit areas with clear visibility. Community engagement initiatives, such as Neighbourhood Watch, can also help reduce anti-social behaviour and violence, which are 42.9% and 34% above the UK average, respectively.

Crime in Hemsworth follows distinct patterns throughout the day. Morning hours (6am–12pm) see a concentration of other crimes (41%), possibly linked to early-morning disruptions or unsecured properties. Afternoons (12pm–6pm) witness higher burglary rates (25%), likely tied to vacant homes or businesses during lunch breaks. Evening hours (6pm–12am) show a rise in other crimes (60%), potentially due to increased social activity and alcohol consumption. Nighttime (12am–6am) peaks in vehicle crime (28%) and other crimes (41%), which may be attributed to isolated parking areas or late-night transport routes.

Compared to nearby areas, Hemsworth’s crime rate (151.9 per 1,000) is 33% higher than Fitzwilliam and Kinsley (114.2 per 1,000) and 125% higher than Brierley (67.5 per 1,000), the region’s safest area. South Kirkby (136.6 per 1,000) is the closest in rate, with Hemsworth 11% higher. These differences likely reflect variations in population density, economic opportunities, and community engagement across the region.

Given Hemsworth’s robbery rate is 118% above the UK average, proactive security measures are critical, scOS’s AI-powered perimeter detection can identify threats before they reach your property, triggering deterrents like lights and speakers to dissuade intruders. For burglary, which is 103% above the UK average, scOS’s multi-camera monitoring and DVLA vehicle verification help secure homes and deter opportunists. These features are designed to address the specific vulnerabilities of an area with elevated robbery and burglary rates.