Police target shoplifters in Torquay in a successful operation

Police officers in Torquay are on a drive to target shoplifters in the town in a bid to increase reporting, improve safety for retail workers and deter criminals.

On Thursday 18 July, neighbourhood police officers carried out a targeted high visibility patrol across the town centre and surrounding areas. Officers called into shops on route, engaging with retailers so that officers could fully understand the impact of retail crime on their business, on their employees, and on their customers. Key information relating to shoplifters was shared with the police, and reports of crime are being followed up.

Police gave useful crime prevention advice to retailers to help deter people who are looking to steal from their shops; changing the layout of a retail store and moving alcohol away from the doors can often reduce criminal activity.

Inspector Chris Lithgow, who heads up neighbourhood policing teams in Torquay, said: “Shoplifting is an offence which can hugely impact the livelihoods and wellbeing of businesses and their employees. We know how devastating this can be, especially if the business becomes a regular target; that’s why we’re connecting with our local retailers. By developing positive relationships, we aim to encourage reporting, support them with crime prevention methods, and build investigations with strong evidence to target shoplifters.

“This is just part of our ongoing activity to crackdown on shoplifting and prolific offenders - we know this isn’t the only answer. But we hope that by connecting with businesses, we can form strong co-operative relationships so we can work together to continue to make businesses, employees and customers feel safer in Torquay.”

During May and June alone, police secured 21 charges for shoplifting offences in Torquay. These people are currently awaiting sentencing through the courts. "I hope this demonstrates to our communities just how seriously we take this type of crime and that we are listening and responding to what communities are telling us," Insp Lithgow added. "Our officers will continue to use a number of tactics to pursue offenders, including plain clothes patrols.

"If an offence happens in your store, or if you see shoplifting taking place or have some information relating to a possible suspect, please do come forward. With your reports, we can create a clear picture of the crime hotspots and put proactive measures in place to deter and target offenders. Reports really do make a difference.”

Please continue to report crime and intelligence on the Devon & Cornwall website or by calling 101. If a crime is taking place, call 999.

Information can also be passed completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers, just call 0800 555111, or via their website.