Yes, there is a noticeable and concerning trend regarding shoplifting incidents in Brockham. Located within the Mole Valley district, Brockham is a BUA (Built-Up Area) with a population of 2763. While Brockham generally enjoys a high safety score of 92 out of 100 – significantly above the UK average of 79 – recent data indicates a worrying upward trend in shoplifting.
Our analysis reveals that shoplifting incidents have increased by 29.7% year-on-year. This represents a substantial shift and warrants attention. It's important to contextualize this figure within Brockham’s overall crime rate, which currently stands at 34.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, suggesting that while shoplifting is increasing, Brockham remains a relatively safe area. However, the rate of increase is a cause for concern.
The increase in shoplifting incidents doesn't necessarily indicate a broader escalation of crime in Brockham. It's possible that improved reporting, changes in policing strategies, or even seasonal factors could be contributing to the observed rise. Nonetheless, the 29.7% year-on-year increase demonstrates a clear trend that requires monitoring and potentially proactive measures.
It is essential to remember that this data reflects incidents recorded by authorities. The actual number of shoplifting incidents may be higher, as some may go unreported. Residents and business owners in Brockham are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. Further investigation into the specific types of goods targeted and the methods used by offenders could help inform targeted preventative strategies.