The question of how prevalent shoplifting is in St Ives (Cornwall) is a valid concern for residents and business owners alike. Based on available data, shoplifting does appear to be more common in St Ives than the national average. The crime rate in St Ives, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 5369, stands at 106.2 incidents per 1,000 people. This figure is significantly higher than the UK average, which is 91.6 incidents per 1,000 people.
Essentially, for every 1,000 residents in St Ives, there are over 106 reported incidents of shoplifting. This suggests a heightened risk for businesses operating within the area. It’s important to note that a 'crime rate' is simply the number of crimes reported per population unit. It doesn't necessarily indicate the causes of the shoplifting or the severity of individual incidents.
Adding to this perspective, St Ives has a safety score of 75 out of 100, which is lower than the UK average safety score of 79. While safety scores are composite measures, the lower score in conjunction with the higher shoplifting rate suggests a potentially greater perceived risk of crime in the area.
It's important to remember that crime statistics represent reported incidents. The actual prevalence of shoplifting may be higher if some incidents go unreported. Businesses in St Ives should consider this data when assessing their security needs and implementing preventative measures. While this data is specific to a defined period and area, it highlights a trend warranting attention and proactive steps to ensure a safe and secure environment for both businesses and residents.