Crime reporting app launched for Torbay businesses

Devon and Cornwall Police reported a 37.9% rise in shoplifting from 2022 to 2023

Businesses in Torbay are being offered an app to help tackle retail crime.

The UK Partners Against Crime (UKPAC) app and website allows firms to report shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and violence, which is shared with police so they are able to target problem areas and track repeat offenders.

A free year-long pilot is being funded by the Devon and Cornwall police and crime commissioner's office, after which firms can sign up for a subscription of £20 a month.

Devon and Cornwall Police reported a 37.9% rise in shoplifting across the force area, which includes Torbay, from 5,567 offences in 2022 to 7,677 in 2023.

Torquay Insp Rob Harvey said the force was "looking forward to working with UKPAC to send a clear message that crime against businesses in Torbay will not be tolerated".

"We want to respond to the crimes and issues that are causing the most harm to our community, the information and intelligence we will get from UKPAC will be invaluable to direct our teams and achieve better outcomes more quickly," he said.