The question of whether there are noticeable trends in shoplifting within Hatfield Peverel is one that requires examination of available data. Currently, Hatfield Peverel, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within the Braintree district, has a population of 2940. The overall crime rate for Hatfield Peverel is 84.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is slightly below the national average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests the area is generally safer than many others across the United Kingdom, as reflected in its safety score of 77 out of 100, compared to the UK average of 79.
However, the most concerning aspect is the recent trend: shoplifting incidents have been increasing. The data indicates an 8.7% year-on-year increase in shoplifting within Hatfield Peverel. This signifies that while the baseline crime rate is relatively low, the rate of shoplifting is accelerating. It is important to note that the data provided does not specify the exact nature of the shoplifting incidents or the types of businesses most affected; it simply indicates a rising number of reported occurrences.
Understanding the context is crucial. A small population, like Hatfield Peverel’s 2940 residents, means that even a relatively small number of incidents can significantly impact the crime rate per 1,000 people. While the safety score is reasonably high, the rising trend suggests that proactive measures are needed to address the underlying causes of this increase and prevent further escalation. Further investigation into the reasons behind this upward trend, such as changes in local demographics, economic conditions, or policing strategies, would be beneficial. Residents should remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to Essex Police.