Vehicle crime in Helston, Cornwall, like elsewhere, can be a concern. While Helston’s overall crime rate sits at 64.9 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average of 91.6, understanding the specific types of vehicle-related offences can help residents take preventative measures.
The available data doesn’t specify the precise breakdown of vehicle crime types within Helston (BUA). However, we can contextualise the situation with broader property crime data. Helston's property crime rate is 17.1 per 1,000 people. This category encompasses a range of offences, including theft from vehicles, vehicle theft itself, and criminal damage to vehicles.
Given this broader property crime context, common vehicle crimes likely mirror national trends. These frequently include:
- Vehicle Theft: The complete theft of a vehicle. This is often targeted for resale or for use in committing other crimes.
- Theft from Vehicles: This involves the theft of items left inside a car, such as sat nav devices, radios, personal belongings, and even tools. Opportunistic thieves often target vehicles left unattended, particularly in car parks or on residential streets.
- Criminal Damage to Vehicles: This can range from minor scratches and dents to more extensive vandalism, often involving broken windows or damaged bodywork.
- Number Plate Theft: Vehicle registration plates are sometimes stolen for fraudulent purposes, such as avoiding traffic cameras or committing other crimes.
It's important to note that Helston’s safety score is 85/100, which is above the UK average of 79, suggesting a relatively safe environment overall. However, vigilance remains key. The lower crime rate compared to the UK average doesn't eliminate the risk of vehicle crime; it simply indicates a potentially lower frequency.
To mitigate the risk of vehicle crime, consider the following: always lock your vehicle, even when parked in seemingly safe locations; avoid leaving valuables in plain sight; park in well-lit and visible areas; consider installing an alarm system or immobiliser; and regularly check your vehicle’s security features. Reporting any suspicious activity to the police is also vital for maintaining community safety.