Hailsham Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

In August 2023, Hailsham recorded 139 crimes, equating to 6.7 incidents per 1,000 residents—17.3% below the UK average of 8.1. This figure, when contextualised for Hailsham's population of 20,712, translates to roughly one crime for every 149 residents during the month. The most significant category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 33.1% of all reported crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour at 25.2%. These figures align with the area's character as a small, built-up town within a rural district, where social interactions and community dynamics may influence crime patterns. The seasonal context of August—peak holiday month—likely played a role in shaping these statistics. For instance, the 18% increase in anti-social behaviour above the UK average could be partly explained by increased social gatherings during the summer, while the 39% lower rate of vehicle crime may reflect reduced theft opportunities in a less densely populated area. Burglary rates were 71% below the UK average, a trend consistent with Hailsham's status as a small town with fewer high-value targets compared to larger urban centres. The data also highlights a 50% reduction in other theft and shoplifting incidents, which may be linked to seasonal factors such as school holidays reducing retail activity. These patterns illustrate a crime profile shaped by both local conditions and broader national trends, with August's statistics offering a snapshot of the area's security landscape during a period of heightened tourism and social activity.

August saw a 75% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 4 to 7 incidents. This surge may be linked to higher traffic volumes during the summer holiday season, though no definitive causal link can be established. Conversely, shoplifting fell by 53.8%, from 13 to 6 cases, possibly reflecting reduced retail activity during school holidays. Anti-social behaviour, the second most common crime type, rose 18% above the UK average, a figure that may be influenced by the social dynamics of a small town during peak summer months. Violent crimes accounted for 33.1% of all incidents, slightly below the UK average for this category. This mix suggests a combination of local factors and broader trends, with property crimes making up 30% of the total and violent crimes 33.1%. The stark contrast between rising anti-social behaviour and falling vehicle crime illustrates shifting patterns in criminal activity.

Hailsham's crime rate in August 2023 fell to 6.7 per 1,000 residents, a 13.1% decrease from July's 7.7 per 1,000. This decline aligns with broader seasonal patterns, as August typically sees reduced foot traffic in non-tourist areas. On a daily basis, the area experienced an average of 4 crimes per day, a figure that translates to roughly one reported crime for every 149 residents over the course of the month. When considering population density, this rate suggests a relatively low level of criminal activity compared to larger urban centres. The monthly exposure statistic—1 in 149 residents affected—provides a tangible measure of risk for local residents, though this aggregate figure does not reflect variations in specific neighbourhoods. The drop from July to August also contrasts with the seasonal context of increased tourism, which might be expected to raise crime rates in some categories but appears to have had a mitigating effect here.