Yes, there has been a noticeable and concerning trend of increasing shoplifting incidents in Bromyard. Located in Herefordshire, Bromyard (a Built-Up Area or BUA) has a population of 4708 people. While the overall crime rate for Bromyard stands at 95.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6, it's the recent upward trend that warrants attention.
The data reveals a significant year-on-year (YoY) increase of 30.8% in shoplifting incidents. This means that the number of reported shoplifting cases has risen substantially compared to the previous year. While a precise number of incidents isn't provided, the percentage increase highlights the severity of the issue. This trend places Bromyard's overall safety score at 78/100, slightly below the UK average of 79.
It's important to understand that these statistics represent reported incidents only. The actual number of shoplifting occurrences may be higher due to unreported crimes. The reasons behind this increase are not specified in the data provided; however, potential contributing factors could include economic pressures, changes in policing strategies, or other local circumstances.
While the overall crime rate isn't dramatically higher than the national average, the substantial rise in shoplifting necessitates proactive measures. Residents and businesses in Bromyard should be aware of this trend and take steps to enhance security. Reporting any suspicious activity to the police is vital, as is remaining vigilant in public spaces. Local businesses should review their security protocols and consider measures such as improved CCTV coverage, staff training, and clear signage regarding theft prevention.