Report reveals the areas in Bridgwater most affected by violent and sexual crimes throughout 2024.
The east part of town saw over 1,200 such crimes. This was between January and December 2024. Police couldn’t prosecute suspects in over 25% of these cases. Bridgwater east includes some key areas. Think Bristol Road, St. Johns Street, and Parkway.
The Clink retail park also falls in this zone. Many crimes happened right there. Crime went up in Bridgwater north and south too. This increase started late in 2023.
Anti-social behavior was the second most common crime type. Somerset’s crime rate was high. This was through June 2024. The rate topped areas like Cornwall and north Devon.
Police recorded almost 79 crimes per 1,000 residents. The Bridgwater Mercury reported an increase last November. Town centre incidents rose 30% from 2023 to 2024.
Police say Bridgwater grew quickly. More people can mean more crime. Still, Somerset’s crime is below their average. Violent crime has different levels.
It goes from simple assault to murder. Weapons like guns and knives are included. Acid is also a factor. Sexual offences include non-consensual acts. Rape and sexual assault matter.
Crimes against kids also count. Exploiting others sexually, online or not, is a crime.