Worthing ranked second for shoplifting rates in UK study

Worthing has been ranked the second highest shoplifting hotspot in the UK, with 22.8 incidents recorded per 1,000 people, according to a new study.

The research, carried out by commercial security systems provider Avigilon, analysed Office for National Statistics data covering a 12 month period. It found that shoplifting accounted for around 25 per cent of all recorded crime in the town, placing it among the highest proportions nationally.

Sussex Police said shoplifting has a significant impact on businesses, employees and the wider community. A spokesperson said the force encourages all incidents to be reported, as consistent reporting helps identify patterns, target offenders and allocate resources effectively to prevent further offences.