Inspector Ludlam - monthly business report for city centre

Inspector Ludlam - monthly business report for city centre

City Centre Policing Update – Inspector’s Report

Good afternoon all,

As we approach the end of the financial year, many businesses will be experiencing one of the busiest periods, balancing year‑end stock checks, accounts, and planning ahead. While policing brings its own reporting pressures, we equally understand the challenges faced by the business community. I want to acknowledge the continued cooperation and resilience shown across the city centre.

It is genuinely encouraging to see new businesses opening, from local independents to national brands. At a challenging economic time, the collective effort shown by businesses supporting one another is a real positive for Leicester city centre.

Neighbourhood Policing Team – New arrivals

We have recently strengthened our City Centre and Cultural Quarter Neighbourhood Policing Teams. I am pleased to welcome:

Sgt David Cross – Cultural Quarter Supervisor

PC Oliver Carpenter – Cultural Quarter

PC George Proctor – Cultural Quarter

PC Suhaib Khalid – City Centre

PC Georgie Hughes – City Centre

These additions increase our visibility, responsiveness, and capacity to problem‑solve with partners

2026 Crime Overview

As the financial year closes, we can provide a like‑for‑like comparison of reported crime (1 April to 31 March) against the previous year.

Encouraging reductions achieved:

Total crime: Down 3.7%, equating to 519 fewer victims

Robbery: Down 16.3%

Theft from motor vehicles: Down 12.9%

Theft of motor vehicles: Down 17.5%

Theft of pushbikes: Down 11.1%

Residential burglary: Down 17.2%

Violence against the person: Down 4.8%

These reductions reflect sustained enforcement, intelligence‑led patrols, and strong partnership working.

Area of increase:

Shoplifting: Up 2.0%

Retail theft remains a priority. In response, we have increased high‑visibility and plain‑clothes patrols, targeted repeat‑victim businesses, delivered tailored crime prevention advice, and arrested and charged several prolific offenders. Feedback from retailers already suggests improved confidence and faster police engagement.

Good News Highlights

Reduced overall crime and violent offending across the city centre

Increased neighbourhood policing numbers improving visibility and engagement

Strong results from partnership‑led enforcement and problem‑solving

Positive business feedback following targeted patrols and interventions

Continued investment and confidence in the city, evidenced by new store openings

Current Priorities – set 1st April 2026

Safer Nights Out: Visible patrols, rapid response, and strong partnerships with venues to help protect women and girls.

Preventing Burglary & Retail Theft: Proactive patrols, intelligence‑led operations, and close collaboration with businesses.

Tackling ASB in Open Spaces: High‑visibility patrols, community engagement, and targeted enforcement.

Share Your Concerns

Please share your views and concerns with us via Neighbourhood Link:
Home Page – Neighbourhood Link

Your insights help us identify emerging issues quickly. We’re committed to working closely with local businesses, and your feedback is vital to shaping our response.

Together, we can continue to make Leicester city centre a safer and more welcoming place for everyone.

Thank you for your continued support.

Inspector Ryan Ludlam
City Centre Policing Team

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Ryan Ludlam
(Leicestershire Police, Insp 1958, Central Leicester)