Shoplifting is increasing, but Wiltshire records fewest crimes nationally

Shoplifting offences are on the increase in Wiltshire but plans are in place to tackle the jump and improve engagement with retailers reassures Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson.

Shoplifting offences are on the increase in Wiltshire but plans are in place to tackle the jump and improve engagement with retailers reassures Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson.

Crime statistics released today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show a 14% rise in shoplifting in the 12 months to March 2024, this is an increase of nearly 500 offences compared to the previous year.

Retail crime has been high on the national agenda in recent weeks after the introduction of a specific offence for assaulting a shop worker and a government pledge, outlined in last week’s King’s Speech, to remove the £200 threshold currently in place for prosecuting shoplifters – meaning that lower value thefts will see an increased police response and investigation.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson said: “Shoplifting should not be dismissed as a victimless, lower-level crime – we’re seeing an increasing trend of shoplifting being used by organised crime groups to fuel criminality and the impact on retailers, employees and the wider community should not be understated.

“This impact is felt further when intimidation and threats of violence accompany shoplifting offences and both economic and physical harm is caused to those working in retail and business owners. 

“I have and continue to challenge Wiltshire Police to better tackle shoplifting and am pleased that a new business crime strategy has been developed which outlines a clear forward plan. This will be supported by the increased focus on police visibility and neighbourhood policing under the direction of Chief Constable Catherine Roper - we must ensure that people are able to feel safe in the communities they live and work.”

Photo: PCC Philip Wilkinson speaking to Jenny Gaunt from JD Sports in Swindon

Following consultation with retailers, business networks such as Salisbury BID and both local authorities progress is being made to improve the service that retailers receive from Wiltshire Police including, additional crime prevention measures funded by the OPCC such as increased CCTV coverage, additional police patrols, improved reporting mechanisms and greater intelligence sharing between retailers and the police.

“I met with local retailers in Warminster just this week and will continue to maintain that dialogue to ensure that the concerns of retailers are being addressed and that partners are working together to effectively address shoplifting and its drivers” added Mr Wilkinson. 

Lowest crime rate nationally 

Despite an increase in shoplifting, the statistics also show that Wiltshire recorded the fewest number of crimes in the country, with an 8% decrease on the previous 12 months, including significant decreases in robbery (28%), residential burglary (22%), public order offences (13%) and violence against the person (11%).

Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “My colleagues and I are dedicated to keeping Wiltshire safe. These latest figures from the ONS showing Wiltshire as having the lowest overall recorded crime rate of all forces in the country are a reflection of this commitment to our communities.

“However, these statistics also show that we still have victims of crime across the county who are suffering from the unscrupulous people who are still causing harm. The significant rises in theft from the person and shoplifting are being addressed through increased town centre patrolling; improving collaborations with retailers and partners, and robust enforcement against repeat offenders.

“We will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of criminals; we will continue to hold them to account for their actions, and we will continue to place our support to our victims at the heart of everything we do.”

Published Thursday 25 July 2024