Shepton Mallet saw a sharp rise in recorded crime in June 2024, with incidents up by 36% compared to May. Police reported 150 crimes in June, up from 110 the previous month, with significant increases in drug offences and theft.

The jump in criminal activity coincided with the Glastonbury Festival, which took place in late June. This annual event typically draws large crowds to the surrounding areas, including Shepton Mallet, and can lead to a temporary rise in certain types of crime.

A police spokesperson acknowledged the festival's influence on local figures: "It's not unusual to see an increase in crime during June due to the influx of visitors attending Glastonbury Festival. The rise in drug-related offences and thefts reflects this, but we continue to work closely with event organisers and the local community to minimise the impact."

Among the most significant increases was a spike in drug offences, with 15 incidents recorded in June compared to just one in May. Police attributed this rise to the increased activity surrounding the festival, where drug-related arrests are more frequent.

Theft also saw a substantial rise, with 24 incidents of 'other theft' reported in June, more than double the 10 recorded in May. Shoplifting cases also increased slightly, from 13 to 15 incidents, as local businesses faced more pressure during the busy festival period.

Violent crime remained the most commonly reported category, with 50 incidents recorded in June, up from 48 in May. This category includes physical assaults and threats of violence, many of which occur in domestic settings or in public spaces.

While Shepton Mallet experienced an overall rise in crime, some categories saw little change. Vehicle crime remained steady, with three incidents recorded in both May and June, while anti-social behaviour cases saw a slight decrease, dropping from 16 in May to 12 in June.

Public order offences, which involve actions likely to cause distress or alarm, remained stable, with 12 incidents in June compared to 10 in May.

There were three burglaries reported in June, a slight increase from two in May. Criminal damage and arson cases rose significantly, with 12 incidents in June compared to four the previous month.

Robbery, which involves taking property with the use of force, was reported once in June, while there were no recorded cases in May.

A police spokesperson urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour: "We are aware of the recent rise in criminal activity and are working with the community to address these issues. The Glastonbury Festival brings additional challenges, but our officers are committed to keeping Shepton Mallet safe."

Police continue to monitor crime trends in the area and have encouraged residents to report any concerns to help tackle local issues. The crime figures for July will be released in the coming weeks.