Shoplifting In Cambridgeshire

19 May 2010, 06:00

Cambridgeshire Police are handing out information packs to shop managers, that advise them how to deal with thieves.

In Cambridgeshire in 2007 - 2008, there were 3,573 reports of shoplifting.

Between 2009 - 2010, that number had risen to 4,282.

Police officers are now working with retailers, initially in Cambridge and Huntingdon, to try and reverse that upward trend.

Business owners are being given a retail crime pack, containing guidance to managers and staff on dealing with shoplifters.

It also explains how to report incidents to Police.

Cambridgeshire Police hope the scheme will help retailers report thefts and increase staff confidence in the force.

Force crime reduction manager, Shirley Simpson, said: "It is hoped that better collaboration between Cambridgeshire police and retailers will lead to more offenders being brought to justice.

Improved knowledge and intelligence about offences and offenders should also bring greater community confidence.

Better reporting of offences will help us gain a better understanding of the effects of this crime on the retail sector."

If the scheme is successful in reducing shoplifting in Cambridge and Huntingdon, it will be extended to the rest of Cambridgeshire.