Worthing Ranked Worst Town in the UK for Shoplifting

Worthing has been named the worst town in the UK for shoplifting, according to a new study analysing crime statistics. The research found the town recorded 23.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, placing it at the top of the national list.

The study, conducted by Accu Components, examined data from the Office for National Statistics, the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency, and the Scottish Government.

Researchers noted that many of the areas with the highest shoplifting rates were not major urban centres but rather mid-sized towns. The findings highlight the growing issue of retail theft in smaller communities, with Worthing and Crawley both making the top ten.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne attributed the high ranking to increased crime reporting and a dedicated business crime unit. She stated that local businesses have been actively reporting thefts through improved systems, allowing law enforcement to better track and respond to incidents.

Sussex Police have pledged to continue tackling shoplifting by using a combination of investigations, civil orders, and community resolutions to prevent repeat offences.