The question of how prevalent shoplifting is in West Auckland, County Durham, is unfortunately a significant one. Our data indicates that the area, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 2907, experiences a considerably higher crime rate than the national average. Specifically, West Auckland's crime rate stands at 209.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is substantially higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000 residents.
This elevated crime rate is reflected in the area's safety score, which is 57 out of 100. For context, the UK average safety score is 79. A lower safety score suggests a perceived or actual higher level of risk for residents and visitors. While the data doesn't isolate shoplifting as a specific crime, the overall high crime rate strongly implies that shoplifting is a contributing factor to the lower safety score.
It's important to understand that crime rates are complex and influenced by various factors, including socioeconomic conditions, population density, and local policing strategies. This data provides a snapshot based on reported incidents and doesn't necessarily represent the full picture of safety in West Auckland. The data covers a period, but no specific dates are provided, so it's impossible to comment on trends over time.
Residents and businesses in West Auckland should be particularly vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Community engagement and proactive crime prevention measures are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by this higher crime rate. Local businesses, in particular, should consider implementing security measures to deter shoplifting and protect their assets.