Crime falls 20% in November

New crime statistics for November 2024 indicate a positive trend for Newtown and the surrounding SY16 area, with 168 crimes recorded across the region.

This represents a substantial 20% reduction compared to the 209 incidents reported in October. While the overall decline is encouraging, a closer look at the data highlights both areas of significant improvement and those requiring continued attention.

You can view the crime locations via our interactive map here.

Several major crime categories saw notable decreases.

• Violence and Sexual Offences: Although this remains the most commonly reported crime type, incidents decreased from 85 in October to 76 in November, a 10% reduction.
• Anti-Social Behaviour: Reports fell dramatically by 39%, from 33 cases in October to 20 in November.
• Criminal Damage and Arson: This category experienced a significant 38% drop, with cases falling from 26 to 16.
• Burglary: Burglary incidents were halved, dropping from 10 cases in October to just five in November.
• Shoplifting: A major decline was also observed in shoplifting, with incidents dropping from eight to three.

While many crime categories saw reductions, a few remained stable or experienced minor increases.

• Other Theft: Reports of other theft remained consistent, with nine cases reported in both October and November.
• Public Order Offences: Public order offences saw a slight rise, increasing from 18 incidents in October to 20 in November. While not a significant jump, this category remains an area of focus to ensure public safety.
• Vehicle Crime: Although overall numbers are relatively low, vehicle crime rose slightly from two incidents in October to three in November.
• Bicycle Theft: After no cases were reported in October, two incidents of bicycle theft were recorded in November.
• Possession of Weapons: Similarly, possession of weapons increased from one to two cases. While these numbers are low, any increase in weapon-related crimes is a concern.

The 20% overall reduction in reported crimes suggests positive momentum for the Newtown and SY16 area.

Significant improvements in anti-social behaviour, criminal damage, and burglary are particularly encouraging, as these categories can have a direct impact on residents' sense of safety.