Royal Wootton Bassett Crime Rate April 2024 | Monthly Statistics

For a town of 13,617 residents, 58 crimes reported in April 2024 translate to 4.3 crimes per 1,000 people — a figure 44.2% below the UK average of 7.7 per 1,000. This small built-up area in Wiltshire, known for its rural character and historic connections, shows a crime profile shaped by local dynamics. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 31% of all crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour at 27.6%, and public order offences at 12.1%. The seasonal context of April — marked by Easter holidays, warmer weather, and increased outdoor activity — likely contributes to patterns seen in public order and violent crime. While the overall rate remains well below the national average, the proportion of violent crimes (18 incidents) is notable; however, this category still sits 49% below the UK average of 2.6 per 1,000. The town's low crime rate may reflect its relatively isolated rural setting, with fewer opportunities for large-scale property crime compared to urban centres. Anti-social behaviour, though common, remains just 2% below the UK average, suggesting local community factors may play a role in its persistence. Seasonal shifts in population, such as Easter visitors, could temporarily elevate public order incidents, though this remains a hypothesis requiring further data.

April 2024 saw dramatic shifts in crime patterns, with public order offences surging 600% month-on-month from 1 to 7 incidents. This jump, though still below the UK average of 0.5 per 1,000, raises questions about local triggers during the Easter period. Concurrently, criminal damage and arson fell by 55.6%, from 9 to 4 cases — a decrease consistent with seasonal transitions as spring weather reduces fire risks. Shoplifting also rose 200% to 3 incidents, aligning with increased foot traffic during Easter. Violent crimes (18 incidents) remain 49% below the UK average, a stark contrast to the national trend. Anti-social behaviour, at 16 cases, is just 2% below the UK average, suggesting local community dynamics may sustain this category despite overall low rates. The increase in 'other crime' (3 incidents, up 200%) highlights a growing need for clarity in categorisation, as this vague category includes everything from noise complaints to minor breaches of the peace. Residents may find the 7 public order offences particularly concerning, as these often involve alcohol-related disputes or anti-social behaviour in local pubs and public spaces — areas that see increased patronage during holidays.

The crime rate of 4.3 per 1,000 in April 2024 represents an 11.5% increase from March's 3.8 per 1,000, though it remains well below the UK average. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 2 crimes per day — a figure that, while low, underscores the impact of spikes in specific categories like public order offences. When scaled to the population, this translates to one reported crime for every 235 residents over the course of the month — a rate that, while not negligible, reflects the town's small size and rural nature. This monthly exposure is significantly lower than the UK average, where one crime occurs for every 130 residents. The population-scaled perspective is particularly informative for residents: in a town of 13,617 people, the likelihood of being directly affected by crime is far lower than in larger urban centres. However, the 11.5% month-on-month increase suggests vulnerability to seasonal fluctuations, such as those linked to Easter events. The contrast between Royal Wootton Bassett's low overall rate and its relative performance in specific categories (e.g. shoplifting is 70% below the UK average) illustrates the complexity of local crime dynamics. These figures, when contextualised against the town's rural character and population size, provide a more nuanced picture than raw numbers alone.