The latest data from Norfolk Constabulary’s crime map shows that there were 64 reported burglary incidents in August 2023, an increase from 43 in the same month last year. Norwich North was the worst affected region, with the number of burglaries more than tripling from 10 to 23. However, overall burglaries in Norwich reduced by 20.4% in the 12-month period ending in August 2023 compared to the previous year. Norfolk as a whole also has the second-lowest burglary rate in the country. The increase in burglaries in August can be attributed to the cost of living crisis, which is leading more individuals to engage in unlawful activities to raise money.
Steve Morphew, head of the Labour Group at Norfolk County Council, pointed out that financial desperation is a leading cause of theft and burglary. While burglary is a horrible crime that violates people’s homes and steals their possessions, Morphew believes that the increase in burglary is linked to the cost of living crisis. He emphasized that reducing burglary requires addressing both the crime problem and the underlying issues of the cost of living crisis. Earlier this month, the number of shoplifting cases in Norwich also rose by 70%, prompting independent shops to urge the police to take more action.
The increase in burglaries and shoplifting cases has far-reaching and long-term impacts on victims’ lives, according to Alex Mayes, external affairs manager at the charity Victim Support. Burglaries invade people’s safe spaces and can deeply unsettle their sense of security. Victims may also lose treasured belongings and memories that can never be replaced. Mayes stressed the importance of taking burglary seriously and providing help and justice to victims. Support services like Norfolk and Suffolk Victim Care offer specialist assistance to help victims cope and move forward with their lives.
Norfolk Constabulary released its overall statistics for the 12 months ending in June 2023, which show a 6% decline in recorded crime compared to the previous year. Burglary in the county decreased by 3.9%, while shoplifting increased by 25.6%. Reductions were seen in stalking and harassment, drug offenses, public order offenses, and violence. Chief Constable Paul Sanford emphasized that Norfolk remains a safe place to live and that the constabulary has one of the highest detection rates in the country. The force is committed to tackling the crimes that matter most to the community.
