How Many Crimes Have North Wales Churches Faced From 2022 to 2024?

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Between 2022 and 2024, a total of 184 crimes were reported at churches in North Wales, according to data obtained through a Freedom of Information request by the Countryside Alliance. Across all of Wales, the total number of reported church-related crimes was 487 during the same period.

North Wales Police recorded these incidents between January 1, 2022, and December 30, 2024, while other regions reported varying figures: Gwent Police noted 183 crimes, and South Wales Police reported 120 crimes at churches.

Mo Metcalf-Fisher, Director of External Affairs at the Countryside Alliance, emphasized that churches and places of worship are increasingly targeted by criminals, despite being intended as places of refuge and peace. She highlighted the urgent need for better security funding and public vigilance to protect these historic and community-centered buildings. She also called for legislative progress on creating aggravated offenses for damage or loss of heritage assets, underscoring the cultural importance of churches beyond their religious function.

The Countryside Alliance’s investigation revealed that over 9,000 crimes occurred at churches and religious premises across the UK from 2022 to 2024, averaging about eight crimes daily. These include thefts, burglaries, criminal damage, vandalism, arson, and assaults. Lead and metal thefts, in particular, have caused significant damage and financial strain for many churches.

Efforts to improve security funding include programs such as the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which offers churches the opportunity to receive up to $200,000 per physical location to enhance their security measures. This funding increase aims to help churches better protect themselves against ongoing criminal threats.

In summary, the period from 2022 to 2024 saw significant criminal activity targeting churches in North Wales and across the UK, prompting calls for increased security funding, public awareness, and legislative measures to safeguard these important community and heritage sites