Victims of car thefts in Essex have told the BBC it is a crime that “ruins people’s lives”.
Home Office data showed Essex recorded the fourth highest rate of car theft per head of population in England and Wales between 2025-26, although its figures fell by more than 16% in the last year.
One victim said it was a “disgusting” crime, with another describing how their car had been stolen despite putting their keys in a signal-blocking pouch to deter thieves.
Essex Police said tackling vehicle crime was “a priority” for the force.
The Home Office data, compiled by the BBC, shows car theft data across England and Wales from 2015 to 2026.
In Essex, there were 4,646 car thefts between 2025-26 – up from 3,327 a decade ago – but lower than the 10-year peak of 5,979 thefts in 2023-24.
Across England and Wales, the percentage of recorded car theft offences resulting in a charge or summons has dropped from 10% in 2015-16 to 3% in 2025-26.