The question of what measures are being taken to prevent shoplifting in Ottery St Mary is a valid concern for residents and businesses alike. While Ottery St Mary, a built-up area in East Devon, currently has a crime rate of 45.6 per 1,000 people, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6, proactive measures are still crucial to maintaining a safe and secure environment. Furthermore, Ottery St Mary boasts a safety score of 88/100, exceeding the UK average of 79, indicating a generally perceived sense of safety within the community.
Specific, publicly available data detailing dedicated shoplifting prevention measures solely for Ottery St Mary is not readily available. However, general crime prevention strategies employed by Devon and Cornwall Police, which cover the area, are likely to be in place. These typically include increased police patrols in known hotspot areas, engagement with local businesses to provide crime prevention advice (such as CCTV installation and staff training), and the use of intelligence-led policing to target repeat offenders.
It is highly probable that local businesses in Ottery St Mary are implementing their own preventative measures, such as improved security systems, loss prevention strategies, and staff training to identify and deter potential shoplifters. Community engagement plays a vital role; Neighbourhood Watch schemes, if present, would be instrumental in reporting suspicious activity and fostering a sense of collective responsibility. The police rely on accurate and timely reporting from the community to effectively address crime, including shoplifting.
While the lower crime rate and high safety score are encouraging, it's important to remember that crime prevention is a continuous process. Local authorities and businesses must remain proactive in identifying and addressing potential vulnerabilities. Residents can contribute by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious behaviour to the police. Further information on reporting crime and community safety initiatives can be found on the Devon and Cornwall Police website.