Worthing Crime Rate December 2024 | Monthly Statistics

For every 1,000 residents in Worthing, 7.1 crimes were reported in December 2024—a figure identical to the UK average. This parity suggests that the area’s crime profile aligns closely with national trends, though the distribution of crime types reveals distinct local patterns. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 31.1% of all crimes, a share that, while significant, is 14% below the UK average for this category. This discrepancy may reflect effective local policing or community initiatives that have curbed violent incidents. Shoplifting, however, emerged as a major concern, contributing 20.5% of all crimes and standing at 163% above the UK average. This stark deviation is likely tied to the retail environment and the surge in Christmas shopping, which often heightens opportunities for theft. Anti-social behaviour, at 9.6% of all crimes, was 26% below the UK average, possibly indicating a successful focus on community engagement or environmental design that deters disorderly conduct. The seasonal context of December—marked by long evenings, empty homes during holiday breaks, and increased foot traffic in commercial areas—likely amplifies certain risks while mitigating others. For instance, the darkness of winter nights may contribute to a higher incidence of anti-social behaviour, as visibility decreases and public spaces become less monitored. Conversely, the same conditions could reduce vehicle crime by limiting opportunities for theft, though the 110% increase in this category during the month contradicts this hypothesis, suggesting other factors at play, such as targeted criminal activity or changes in patrol patterns. The balance between these trends underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of how local geography, demographics, and seasonal rhythms intersect with crime dynamics. Worthing’s coastal location and mix of urban and suburban areas may further influence these patterns, with commercial districts experiencing higher retail-related crimes and residential areas facing different challenges. Overall, the data illustrates a community where crime rates are broadly in line with national benchmarks, but where specific categories—particularly shoplifting—require closer attention due to their disproportionate impact.

December 2024 saw an 110% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 20 to 42 incidents—a sharp spike that may reflect heightened activity during the festive season or changes in vehicle security practices. Criminal damage and arson also rose by 41.2%, potentially tied to seasonal property neglect or increased public gatherings. Conversely, possession of weapons fell by 46.2%, suggesting a reduction in related incidents. Shoplifting emerged as a striking outlier, with rates 163% above the UK average, consistent with the pressure of holiday shopping and retail environments. This contrast between rising and falling categories illustrates the combination of local factors, from seasonal demand to targeted enforcement efforts. Residents may find the shoplifting data particularly relevant, as it directly impacts retail areas and local businesses.

Worthing’s crime rate in December 2024 remained stable at 7.1 per 1,000 residents, matching the previous month’s figure. This consistency suggests no major shifts in overall criminal activity. On a daily basis, approximately 26 crimes were reported each day, a figure that, while local to Worthing, reflects the area’s ongoing exposure to a range of criminal behaviour. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 141 residents, a monthly aggregate that contextualises risk in terms of population density. With a population of 113,866, this translates to a relatively low frequency of incidents per individual, though certain crime types—such as shoplifting—remain high compared to the UK average. This balance between stability and variation underscores the need for targeted awareness without overestimating systemic risk.