The long-term crime trends in Carterton, West Oxfordshire (a Built-Up Area or BUA with a population of 18,673) present a mixed picture. While Carterton consistently exhibits a lower crime rate than the national average, a recent upward trend warrants closer examination.
Currently, Carterton’s crime rate stands at 43.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is substantially lower than the United Kingdom’s average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This lower rate contributes to Carterton’s impressive safety score of 89 out of 100, significantly exceeding the UK average of 79. This suggests a generally safe environment for residents and visitors alike.
However, it’s crucial to note a concerning development: Carterton has experienced an increasing crime trend, with an 8.1% year-on-year rise. This means that while the overall crime rate remains low, the frequency of reported incidents has increased compared to the previous year. The specific types of crimes contributing to this increase are not specified in the available data, so understanding the nature of these incidents would be beneficial for targeted preventative measures.
It is important to consider that these figures represent reported crimes, and the actual level of crime may be higher. Factors influencing crime rates can be complex and include socio-economic conditions, population density, and local policing strategies. Further investigation into the root causes of the 8.1% increase would be necessary to implement effective long-term solutions. While the safety score remains high, this upward trend necessitates proactive community engagement and continued monitoring.