The impact of vehicle crime on Sutton residents is a concern, though it exists within a context of generally lower crime rates compared to the national average. Sutton, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 211,985, currently has a crime rate of 77.8 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While the overall crime rate is favourable, vehicle crime contributes to the anxieties of many residents.
It’s important to consider the broader context of property crime within Sutton. The property crime rate stands at 27.8 per 1,000 residents. While vehicle crime isn't explicitly broken out within this figure, it contributes significantly to the overall property crime burden. This means that a portion of the 27.8 incidents per 1,000 people are related to vehicle theft, vehicle damage, or items stolen from vehicles.
Sutton’s safety score is 82/100, which is also above the UK average of 79. This indicates a relatively safe environment, but doesn’t negate the impact of vehicle crime on individual residents who experience it. The feeling of safety is often eroded when personal property, such as a vehicle, is targeted.
While specific data on vehicle crime types within Sutton isn’t provided, understanding the general property crime rate offers valuable context. Residents should be aware of their surroundings and take proactive measures to safeguard their vehicles. These measures include ensuring vehicles are securely locked, parking in well-lit areas, and considering the installation of alarms or tracking devices. Reporting any suspicious activity to the police is also vital in preventing further incidents.