Crackdown on shoplifting, drugs and criminal damage: police secure 63 charges in Plymouth
In response to listening to communities’ concerns, Devon & Cornwall Police in Plymouth South and Central sectors have successfully secured 63 charges against individuals for shoplifting, drug dealing, and criminal damage, in a bid to improve safety in the city.
As a result of proactive activity across May and June, police secured 42 charges against a number of individuals for shoplifting, 11 charges for criminal damage and 10 charges for drug dealing offences. The individuals responsible for these offences are now awaiting sentencing from the courts.
In addition to the criminal charges, four community resolutions were given to individuals ordering them to carry out actions to benefit victims or the community, such as repaying any damage caused to property. Formal cautions were also given to two offenders, which will be held on their criminal records.
Inspector Dom Nicholls, who heads up Plymouth Central sector, said: “We’ve heard our communities loud and clear; we know the issues impacting them and these recent charges show that we’re taking decisive, robust action to tackle crime, offenders and the communities’ concerns head on.
“The reports and information from the public has been one of the main driving factors which has led to successful investigations, enabling us to make multiple arrests and secure these charges over the past two months.”
As well as thorough investigations, the police team have been carrying out a range of activity to target offenders who are committing crime on the streets of Plymouth. Proactive work includes regular high visibility patrols, gathering information from the community about crime, and close collaboration with local partners such as Plymouth Against Retail Crime (PARC).
Inspector James Drake, who heads up Plymouth South sector, said: “We are aware that there is more to do, but this is just one of the steps we’re taking to build a safer city for all, while making it a hostile place for people who are looking to commit crime.
“This work is ongoing and there will continue to be a regular, visible presence of police officers in the city centre and surrounding areas. I would like to urge everyone to continue to report crimes to us; I hope these positive results show just how vital your information is in helping us pursue offenders. Together, we can take a tough stand against crime in Plymouth.”
Shoplifting has a huge impact on the livelihood of local businesses and wellbeing of employees. The latest British Retail Consortium (BRC) survey from a sample of retailers estimated that the overall cost of retail crime, including crime prevention measures, was £3.3 billion. Police in Plymouth continue to work closely with retailers to tackle shoplifting by gathering evidence to build strong investigations and provide businesses with prevention advice to deter shoplifters from targeting their shops.
To report a crime or information about a crime, use the online reporting tool on the Devon & Cornwall website, or call 101. If a crime is taking place, call 999.
Crime can also be reported completely anonymously. Visit the Crimestoppers website or call 0800 555 111 to report a crime with 100% anonymity
