Shop Theft in West Lancashire

Hi,

You have highlighted shop theft as a concern on our recent survey. Unfortunately, as we all know too well, shop theft and abuse towards shop workers is on the rise and some people see it as a victimless crime. It is far from this. Over the last month we have arrested numerous people involved in shop thefts in West Lancashire and obtained over 20 charges. Two offenders have already been sent to prison with another two offenders awaiting sentencing in April. We are also seeking to obtain Criminal Behaviour Orders against these offenders to keep them out of our businesses when they are released from prison.

If any business feels as though they would benefit from a visit from the neighbourhood team, please let me know. We can look at how to provide statements and CCTV to police for a more prompt response. I would urge and management to push their senior management or owners to sign up to our NICE system. CCTV can be sent immediately then we can distribute this for identification.

Thanks,

West Lancashire Neighbourhood Team