West Northamptonshire Crime Rate

Understanding Crime in West Northamptonshire

West Northamptonshire experiences an overall crime rate of 113.3 per 1,000 people per year, which is higher than the national average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area's safety score stands at 74 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety compared to the UK average of 78/100. Over the past year, the crime rate has remained stable, showing a minor increase of 0.9%. This introduction sets the scene for a more detailed examination of crime trends and specific crime types affecting West Northamptonshire, providing valuable context for residents and visitors alike.

About West Northamptonshire's Crime Profile

West Northamptonshire is a diverse local authority district encompassing both urban centres and more rural communities. Its crime statistics are influenced by a mix of residential areas, commercial hubs, and transport links, particularly around larger towns like Northampton. The population of 354,000 contributes to varying population densities across the district, which can impact local crime patterns. Areas with significant retail activity or nightlife may see higher instances of certain crimes, while the presence of major road networks can influence vehicle-related offences. Economic factors and demographic characteristics across the district also play a role in shaping the overall crime landscape and safety score observed in West Northamptonshire.

Crime Type Analysis in West Northamptonshire

The crime profile of West Northamptonshire reveals that 'Violence and sexual offences' is the most prevalent crime, accounting for 34.7% of all reported incidents with a rate of 39.2 per 1,000 people. This is followed by 'Anti-social behaviour' at 19.7% (22.3 per 1,000) and 'Shoplifting' at 9.2% (10.4 per 1,000). These top three categories represent a significant portion of the overall crime experienced in the area.

Beyond these specific categories, property-related crime is a key concern for residents and homeowners. The overall property crime rate in West Northamptonshire stands at 37.4 per 1,000 people per year, which is above the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes offences such as burglary (5.1 per 1,000), vehicle crime (5.5 per 1,000), and various forms of theft, including shoplifting, other theft (6.6 per 1,000), and bicycle theft (0.7 per 1,000). A higher property crime rate suggests that residents should be particularly vigilant in securing their homes and vehicles to mitigate potential risks.

Crime Trends in West Northamptonshire

Analysing the crime trends in West Northamptonshire shows a stable picture over the last year, with a minimal year-over-year increase of 0.9% in total crimes. Looking at the monthly data, the crime rate per 1,000 people fluctuated throughout the period. Rates were relatively lower in December 2024 (8.0) and February 2025 (8.3), suggesting quieter periods. Conversely, July 2025 saw the highest rate at 10.8 per 1,000, indicating a potential seasonal peak during the summer months. Residents should be aware of these subtle shifts, with a slight upward pressure on crime rates indicating the need for continued vigilance despite the overall stability.

West Northamptonshire in Regional Context

When comparing West Northamptonshire to its neighbouring areas, a clearer regional safety picture emerges. The overall crime rate of 113.3 per 1,000 in West Northamptonshire is higher than the UK average. Nearby Rugby and Harborough generally present lower crime rates, offering a contrast in regional safety profiles. Milton Keynes, a larger urban centre, often experiences a different set of crime challenges, while North Northamptonshire, a close administrative neighbour, shares some similarities in its crime landscape. Areas like Oadby and Wigston, and Blaby, further contribute to the diverse regional context, each with their own crime statistics. Understanding these comparisons helps residents gauge West Northamptonshire's safety within its broader geographical setting.

Enhancing Property Protection in West Northamptonshire

Given West Northamptonshire's property crime rate of 37.4 per 1,000, which is above the UK average, proactive home security measures are particularly important. While traditional CCTV systems can provide footage of a burglary, they often only record the event after it has happened. For truly effective protection, consider systems that focus on preventing crime before it occurs, stopping threats at your property boundary.

Modern, AI-powered security operating systems, like scOS, offer a significant advancement in home protection. These systems are designed for proactive deterrence, utilising multi-camera intelligence to watch all areas simultaneously and detect potential intruders before they gain entry. Features such as DVLA vehicle verification can identify suspicious vehicles instantly, while pattern learning distinguishes between family routines and genuine threats, reducing false alarms. An autonomous response, including activating lights and engaging speakers, can destroy an element of surprise for potential burglars, making them move on within the crucial 60-second decision window. While DIY solutions have their place, professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, providing a robust defence against property-related offences in West Northamptonshire.