As shoplifting continues to fall, crimes that disproportionately affect women and girls are on the rise in West Mercia.
According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, reports of stalking and harassment increased by 13%, while rape and sexual offences rose by 8% over the 12-month period up to December 2025.
With ‘Cutting Crime’ a top priority for Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, as set out in his Safer Communities Plan, overall recorded crime has decreased by 15% in West Mercia since 2022.
Other findings include:
· Vehicle offences fell by 14%, including theft of, and theft from vehicles and vehicle interference.
· Outperforming the national average, shoplifting has fallen by a further 6% in West Mercia, when compared to a 1% decrease nationally.
· Public order offences and possession of weapons offences both fell by 3%.
PCC John Campion said: “It’s welcome to see further progress in some areas, particularly shoplifting, when we are seeing offences spike nationally.
“However, the continued rise in offences linked to violence against women and girls is a serious concern. Although this trend is not unique to West Mercia, I remain committed to doing all I can, locally, to support victims and strengthen the collective response to crimes that are disproportionately perpetrated by men.”
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