Betting shops record low crime rates on high streets

A FoI request has found that betting shops rank low for crime compared to other shops on the highstreet.

Betting shops have one of the lowest crime rates among high street retailers, according to statistics from the bookmaker, William Hill.

The firm also found that, betting-related crimes in the UK have dropped.

Earlier this year, the gambling industry came under heavy criticism for its approach to security. However, the figures released by the British police suggest that actually betting shops have some of the lowest crime levels amongst all high street retailers.

The police figures highlight that the betting industry has no more crime than fast food joints, and that bookmaker’s see less trouble than clothes shops, bars, and even food stores.

The Association of British Bookmakers (ABB) requested the statistics from the British Police through a Freedom of information request. While many might be surprised by the official statistics released by Britain’s police forces, the figures have demonstrated that the industry’s approach to security is having a positive impact on crime levels in the UK.

In an article on Politics Home, the bookmaker William Hill state that they take security “very seriously”. The firm writes, “we make significant investment to ensure we have a rigid procedure in place. We have won a number of awards and we work closely with the Police to ensure a safe environment.”

In 2011, William Hill won the Security Industry award for Counter Plan training and one of their security managers was voted security manager of the year.