Essex parcel theft offences down 80% in four years

Reports of parcel thefts have dropped by about 80% in the last four years in Essex, according to information obtained by the BBC.

In response to a Freedom of Information request, Essex Police handled 613 offences between January and August 2021, compared with 120 during the same period in 2025.

The owner of a security company said working from home had acted as a deterrent for criminals, and that neighbours had mastered the art of sharing intelligence.

“They all come together and share what’s happened,” said Chelmsford-based Ahmet Deveci, who used to be a Metropolitan Police detective.