Number of thieves sentenced in Derbyshire last year hit record low, figures show

Ministry of Justice figures show 587 people were sentenced for committing a theft offence in the Derbyshire Constabulary area in 2022 – down from 649 in 2021 and the lowest figure since 2010 when comparable records began.

However, across England and Wales, sentences dished out for to thieves rose for the first time since 2011 after concerns raised about the number of investigations being launched and completed into low-level crime.

Nationally, 36,903 sentences for theft – which includes shoplifting, blackmail, burglary and stealing a vehicle or bicycle – were dished out last year – up from 33,912 the year before.

The Police Federation of England and Wales said the increase was "to be expected given the recent pivot towards prioritising theft and burglaries".

Commenting on the Derbyshire figures, a spokesman for Derbyshire Police said being sentenced at court was only one outcome that may be appropriate, adding “there are an array of other options to deal with someone who has committed a crime”.

He said: “These out of court disposals are often used in lower risk crimes - in particular where those who have committed such offences may have never been in trouble before.

"These can include prevention courses, restorative justice, or cautions – and help ensure that people are dealt with in a proportionate manner given their individual circumstance and the crime they have committed.