Knottingley Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Knottingley's crime rate in January 2026 reached 13.6 per 1,000 residents, more than double the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000. This stark deviation from national trends highlights the area's distinct crime profile, shaped by its location within the Wakefield district and the socio-economic dynamics of its built-up environment. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime profile, accounting for 48.7% of all reported incidents, a figure that is 164% above the UK average. This category's prominence is likely influenced by the area's demographic composition and the presence of community hubs that may contribute to higher rates of interpersonal crime. Shoplifting and other theft followed closely, with the former surging to 13 cases—163% above the UK average. These figures may be partially explained by the post-holiday season, which typically sees reduced retail footfall and potential vulnerabilities in shop security. The seasonal context of January, with shorter days and colder weather, may also have contributed to a shift in crime patterns, with fewer outdoor crimes typical of this time of year. However, the persistent elevation in violent crime compared to national averages suggests deeper systemic issues that require targeted interventions. The area's crime profile, while showing some month-on-month fluctuations, remains higher than the UK average, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and community engagement strategies.

January 2026 saw a 14.3% increase in violence and sexual offences, rising from 49 to 56 incidents. This category remains 164% above the UK average, a stark contrast to the 3% below average rate for anti-social behaviour. Other theft surged by 100%, jumping from five to ten cases, reflecting a significant shift in crime patterns. Meanwhile, public order offences and other crime both fell by 50%, suggesting a temporary reduction in certain categories. The sharp rise in shoplifting (+62.5%) to 13 cases highlights a vulnerability in retail security, particularly given the area's post-holiday retail environment. These fluctuations, while notable, must be contextualized within the broader picture of Knottingley's elevated crime profile. The 197% above UK average rate for vehicle crime also underscores the need for targeted interventions in areas with high vehicle turnover, such as commuter zones or industrial estates.

Knottingley's crime rate in January 2026 fell by 6.6% compared to the previous month, declining from 14.5 to 13.6 per 1,000 residents. This reduction, while modest, suggests a potential stabilization in local crime trends. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately four crimes per day over the 31-day period, a figure that offers a tangible sense of the pace at which incidents occur. When considering the population context, the monthly exposure means that roughly one crime was reported for every 74 residents, a statistic that underscores the frequency of incidents within the community. While this rate remains significantly higher than the UK average, the month-on-month decline may reflect seasonal patterns, such as the post-holiday lull in retail-related crimes. However, the persistence of violent crime at 6.6 per 1,000—over double the UK average—highlights ongoing challenges that require sustained attention.