22-03-2025
Action taken as shoplifting 'increases' in Stroud town centre
A COLLABORATION between police and partner agencies has been 'crucial' in the fight against shoplifting in the town centre.
Last week police said they were out supporting retailers in Stroud town centre following a recent scourge of shoplifting.
Officers say they have had 'great success' in tackling the issue over the last few months following various incidents.
These include when a large amount of stock was returned to a retailer - with arrests made - after several huge trolley dash thefts.
And, together with Stroud Safe, more has been done to identify, prevent and investigate shoplifting offences.
Stroud mayor Tony Davey said: "Crime against business has grown across the country in recent years with Stroud also experiencing this growth in crime.
"The Stroud Safe network in town is a vital tool in fighting back crime against business, and a valuable way to help our Neighbourhood Policing Team and Response Team react quickly and decisively."
Steve Lindsay, from Gloucester City Safe, said: "A targeted policing initiative in Stroud aimed at combating rising retail crime rates has led to a significant increase in successful outcomes, highlighting the effectiveness of a collaborative approach to retail crime, working with Stroud Safe and businesses.
"With retail crime rates climbing nationally and hitting the headlines, Stroud Police have made tackling this issue a priority by way of improving investigations, the area has been able to better identify, prevent, and investigate shoplifting offences.
"A key part of this operation has been the introduction of a dedicated retail crime officer, who has played a crucial role in focusing resources and monitoring cases daily.
"The officer's work has been instrumental in driving a coordinated response to retail crime, ensuring that every possible avenue is explored to address offenders, encourage behavioural change, and safeguard retailers.
"Additionally, the local Neighbourhood Policing team has provided vital support, engaging with retailers to ensure swift evidence capture and the prompt progression of cases.
"This has led to a range of successful outcomes, including charges, custodial sentences, civil injunctions/Criminal Behaviour Orders, and out-of-court disposals, all aimed at managing offenders and curbing repeat incidents.
"The scheme has been particularly effective in tackling repeat and prolific offenders, who cause the greatest harm to businesses.
"Recognising the financial and personal toll that shoplifting takes on business owners, employees, and the wider local community, Stroud Police have focused efforts on both preventing and addressing these crimes in a manner that ensures lasting impact.
"Since the scheme's launch in November 2024, the initiative has seen dramatic improvements in its outcomes.
"The average success rate for shoplifting offences has risen from just 19 per cent in the previous nine months to 52 per cent, marking a significant step forward in the fight against retail crime.
"This success could not have been achieved without the active support and collaboration of businesses and community partners, whose involvement has been vital to the scheme's overall effectiveness.
"Stroud Police remain committed to tackling retail crime through ongoing cooperation and an unwavering focus on protecting both retailers and the community."
