The question of whether shoplifting is a problem in Wattstown, Rhondda Cynon Taf, is a complex one, but our data suggests it's a contributing factor to the area's overall crime picture. Based on available statistics, Wattstown, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 1537, has a crime rate of 115.2 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly higher than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000.
While the data doesn't isolate shoplifting as a specific crime category, it's reasonable to infer that it contributes to the elevated overall crime rate. Shoplifting, alongside other offences, impacts the feeling of safety within the community. The area's safety score reflects this, standing at 72/100, which is below the UK average of 79. A lower safety score indicates a perceived lack of safety among residents.
It’s important to understand that a higher crime rate doesn't necessarily indicate a dangerous environment. It simply means there are more reported incidents per capita. However, the combination of a higher crime rate and a lower safety score suggests that shoplifting, and other crimes, may be causing concern among Wattstown residents. It’s crucial to remember that these statistics represent reported crimes, and the actual number of incidents may be higher.
Further investigation into the specific types of crimes reported in Wattstown would provide a more granular understanding of the situation. However, the overall data paints a picture of an area experiencing a greater level of crime than the national average, and shoplifting is likely a component of this.