PFCC David Allen has pledged to tackle shoplifting and assault on shop staff in the county following reports that shoplifting is at an all-time high.

The most recent crime statistics released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlight that shoplifting figures are at the highest level since records began in 2003.

Nationally the figures show that in 2024, there has been a 30% increase in shoplifting offences compared to the previous year.

However, despite all counties in England and Wales seeing an increase in shoplifting, including Cumbria, Cumbria has the fifth lowest increase at 9% as of March 2024 and has a rate of 4.5 per 1000 population compared to the national average of 7.4.

Cumbria’s police, fire and crime commissioner, David Allen, said: “During my election, I pledged to protect Cumbria’s safety, and this includes the safety of businesses and their staff.

“Although Cumbria has one of the smallest increases across England and Wales, a 9% increase is still a cause for concern that needs to be addressed. It’s not something I take lightly, nor does the Constabulary.

“The Government is introducing a new Crime Bill, highlighted in the King’s Speech last week, to bring in stronger measures to tackle low-level shoplifting valued under £200 and the introduction of a law specifically to protect shop workers from abuse."

Between July 2023 and June 2024, 2,388 shoplifting offences were recorded in Cumbria – 357 more than the previous year and 856 more offences compared to 2020/21.

In the same time period for 23/24, positive outcomes relating to shoplifting offences stand at 37.2%. A 1.6% increase over the same time last year.

A positive outcome refers to when a criminal has been correctly identified and has faced the appropriate sanction or takes part in a restorative justice programme, if applicable.