Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick, held a special Facebook Live event last week to discuss the issue of shoplifting, along with representatives from Dorset Police.
During the online event, the PCC along with Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan and Chief Inspector Alyssa Forrest, discussed what was happening in Dorset to tackle shoplifting, and answered questions from those watching.
The panel covered topics including national initiatives to tackle business crime including Operation Opal and Operation Pegasus to Dorset’s own successful initiative, Operation Shopkeeper. This has identified and led to the arrest and prosecution of a number of prolific offenders over the past year.
Operation Shopkeeper focuses on high harm, repeat offenders who are responsible for the majority of shoplifting across the county. It involves the Force’s frontline officers and backroom investigative staff.
Since November 2023, the team have targeted 32 perpetrators, achieving 696 positive outcomes for victims. In October, the team achieved a 77% success rate.
The event also covered key advice for businesses, and worked to dispel myths around shoplifting, urging businesses and staff to always report each incident.
Mr Sidwick said: “We know that at this time of year, our high streets and shops are busier than ever. Shoplifting is a heinous crime that affects not only store staff, but our communities as well.
“As Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, I wanted to address the issue head on, which is why I started the Dorset Safer Business Partnership in 2021, creating a closer relationship between businesses and Dorset Police. This led to a strategic plan, tactical plan and operations such as Op Shopkeeper.
“Through this partnership, funding to enable greater communication and reporting for businesses, and the ongoing work of the Force in successfully tackling these harmful crimes, I am positive we can make a difference for our business communities.
“But we also need help from them to do this. We need businesses across Dorset to report these incidents so we can ensure we have the full picture of offending and deliver more positive results like those we have already.”
The broadcast is still available to be watched on the PCC Facebook and Dorset Police YouTube accounts. Those who want to find out what is being done to fight shoplifting in Dorset, can replay the video here.
Business owners that want to access support or resources regarding crime prevention, can view the links below.
