Wealden Crime Rate April 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Wealden's crime profile in April 2024 revealed an unexpected surge in burglary, rising from 18 to 41 incidents—a 127.8% increase—despite the area's overall crime rate remaining 46.8% below the UK average of 7.7 per 1,000 residents. This spike in property crime contrasts with consistently low rates for violent offences, which stood at 1.4 per 1,000 residents (34.4% of all crimes), 45% below the UK average. Anti-social behaviour (0.7 per 1,000) and criminal damage (0.4 per 1,000) also remained well below national benchmarks, reflecting a broader pattern of lower property-related crimes in Wealden. The seasonal context of April—Easter celebrations, spring weather, and increased outdoor activity—may have influenced crime patterns, though the burglary surge defies immediate explanation. Wealden, a largely rural district with a mix of historic villages and commuter suburbs, typically experiences lower crime rates due to its dispersed population and limited urban centres. However, the sharp rise in burglary suggests a shift in criminal activity that warrants closer examination of local vulnerabilities, such as increased foot traffic during Easter or temporary lapses in domestic security during holidays.

April 2024 saw a dramatic 127.8% increase in burglary cases, from 18 to 41, marking the most significant month-on-month jump in any crime category. This surge occurred alongside a 66.7% rise in theft from the person (3 to 5) and a 50% increase in robbery (2 to 3), though these remain exceptionally low compared to national averages. Conversely, possession of weapons fell by 88.9% (9 to 1), and bicycle theft decreased by 60% (5 to 2), suggesting targeted efforts or seasonal factors impacting specific crime types. The area's violent crime rate (1.4 per 1,000) remained 45% below the UK average, with violence and sexual offences accounting for 34.4% of all crimes. Residents may find the 4.1 per 1,000 overall rate reassuring, but the burglary spike highlights a need for vigilance in securing properties during peak holiday periods. The mix of property and violent crimes—30.5% property, 69.5% violent—shifts slightly from previous months, indicating a combination of local dynamics.

Wealden's crime rate in April 2024 rose 5.6% from March's 3.9 per 1,000.8% below the UK average. Daily crime activity averaged 23 incidents per day, a figure that, while modest, reflects the area's low-density population. Over the course of April, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 242 residents—a monthly exposure rate that is lower than the UK average. With a population of 166,908, Wealden's crime statistics demonstrate how a relatively small number of incidents can impact community perception. The 127.8% increase in burglary, however, underscores the importance of localized trends: while the overall rate is low, specific categories can fluctuate significantly. This contrast between broad safety metrics and targeted spikes highlights the need for nuanced analysis, ensuring that residents receive accurate context about both the area's general security and potential risks in specific domains.