Exeter police tackle shoplifting

Neighbourhood police officers in Exeter partook in a successful Shoplifting Safer Business Action event (SaBA) to tackle the problem of theft from retailers in the busy city centre. 

The recent operation, which saw police officers ditch their normal uniform and blend in with the public, aimed to raise awareness and focus on an issue that financially burdens local shop workers and owners.

Andrew Sharman, from Exeter Business Against Crime (EBAC), said: “The shoplifting action day saw policing at its finest with crime being disrupted and businesses positively engaged to illustrate that the police are working hard to protect our city.”

Police worked in partnership with EBAC, who operate the council CCTV control centre and provided uniformed street security contractors with visible presence, as well as security staff for the Guildhall shopping centre. 

Sergeant Andy Walton, head of an Exeter neighbourhood police team, said: “Our officers worked closely with stores that have Loss Prevention Officers to identify and deal with suspects. They also went into a range of stores who are signed up to the EBAC scheme and may not have Loss Prevention Officers; this was to positively engage with them and reaffirm our joint working with EBAC. 

“We ensure that loss prevention advice is passed on and remind the stores of the benefits of using the EBAC radio system to share information and request help if necessary.”

Andrew Sharman, from Exeter Business Against Crime, added: “On behalf of Exeter Business Against Crime, we are committed to supporting our colleagues from Devon & Cornwall Police in their mission for safer communities.

“Bringing together businesses, policing, private security providers such as SWL and TSS (who kindly supplied a high visibility presence), and the excellent team at the Exeter City Council CCTV Centre demonstrates how vital partnerships are in addressing crime and anti-social behaviour not just within the businesses but the community as a whole."

As a result of the action, officers dispersed 13 people under Public Spaces Protection Order powers, prohibiting them from returning to the area for a specified period.

They conducted four searches for stolen goods, with two yielding positive results. Illegal tobacco was seized from a man suspected of selling it on Exeter High Street. Additionally, a person wanted by police was arrested for failing to appear in court following three shoplifting charges in Exeter.

Officers responded to a total of seven calls for assistance from stores signed up to EBAC.

Sergeant Walton, said: “We noted that later in the day some offenders left the main shopping areas - this was clearly visible on the CCTV system and showed the deterrent effect the operation had. 

“Our partners were pleased with the action taken and we will look to run another day like this again in future with EBAC.”