The question of what measures are being taken to prevent shoplifting in Crewe is a valid concern, especially given the area's current crime rate and safety score. Crewe, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Cheshire East, has a population of 70,981. The crime rate in Crewe currently stands at 109.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This elevated crime rate contributes to a lower safety score for Crewe, currently at 73 out of 100, compared to the UK average of 79.
While specific, publicly detailed measures implemented solely for Crewe regarding shoplifting prevention are not readily available, it's likely that Cheshire Police, the responsible law enforcement body, are employing a range of strategies common to tackling retail crime across the county. These commonly include increased patrols in areas identified as hotspots for shoplifting, working in partnership with local businesses to improve security measures such as CCTV and alarm systems, and utilising intelligence-led policing to target repeat offenders.
Furthermore, local business watch schemes, where retailers share information about suspected criminals and incidents, are a vital tool. Cheshire Police actively encourage and support these initiatives. Engagement with retailers to offer crime prevention advice, including staff training on spotting and deterring shoplifters, is another common tactic. It's also likely that officers are working to address the underlying causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of opportunity, which can contribute to shoplifting.
It's important to note that a higher crime rate doesn't necessarily indicate a complete failure in crime prevention efforts; it could reflect increased reporting or a more proactive approach to identifying and recording incidents. However, the difference between Crewe’s crime rate and the UK average highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and targeted interventions to improve the area's safety and reduce the impact of shoplifting on local businesses and the community.