Tackling Shoplifting in Dorset: Why Reporting Crime Makes a Difference

 

This week as part of Safer Business Action Week I have been highlighting the challenges facing businesses and the work being done to tackle crime and support those affected. Since coming into office, I have heard time and again from shop owners and retail staff who feel there is little point in reporting shoplifting because they believe nothing will be done, or who find the reporting process too time consuming.

Earlier this week, we heard from Inspector Corbett of Dorset Police’s Retail Crime Team about the work being done to tackle shoplifting and bring offenders to justice. I want this newsletter to demonstrate that shoplifting is taken seriously and that work is underway to hold those responsible to account.

However, I recognise that words alone are not enough. Retailers need to see that action is being taken and hear about the experiences of others in similar situations. That is why I have invited a supermarket manager in Dorset to share their experience of reporting shoplifting to Dorset Police, offering a first-hand perspective on the process and the response they received.

 

I’m the store manager at a supermarket in Dorset and shoplifting continues to be a challenge for my business and others. I know the process of reporting incidents can often feel time-consuming and repetitive. However, my experience has demonstrated that consistent reporting can deliver real results and make a tangible difference to the safety and security of our businesses.

The police team responsible for dealing with these incidents have been excellent. They take the information submitted, bring relevant cases together where possible, and work hard to achieve meaningful outcomes. Their work highlights the importance of businesses providing accurate, consistent information and continuing to report incidents rather than assuming that individual reports will not make a difference.

In January, I had approximately 20 known offenders regularly targeting my business. Today, I have no known repeat offenders attending the store. Instead, the incidents I encounter involve new individuals, who are now being reported through the same process.

This is a significant change, and it reinforces my belief that the process works.

Initially, I was sceptical, as I suspect many businesses may be. The time and administration involved can be frustrating, particularly when dealing with the day-to-day demands of running a business. However, having committed to the process and seen the results, I would strongly encourage others to do the same.

My message to fellow businesses - We cannot prevent every incident of shoplifting, but we can take practical steps to address repeat offending and help protect our colleagues, customers and communities.

My advice is simple:

• Report every incident, regardless of the value of the goods stolen.
• Be consistent when dealing with known repeat offenders.
• Provide accurate information to help the police link relevant cases.
• Encourage collaboration between businesses in your local area.

 

The process requires commitment, but the potential benefits are worth the effort. My experience has changed my initial scepticism into a firm belief that consistent reporting is an effective tool in tackling repeat shoplifting.

By working together and taking a proactive approach, we can help create safer businesses and stronger communities.

 

I’d like to thank this store manager for sharing his story of working with Dorset Police to tackle shoplifting in his store. It is encouraging to hear about positive experiences like this, and I hope it gives other retailers confidence that reporting shoplifting can make a difference. I recognise that every experience will be different, but it is vital that businesses feel able to report crime and have confidence that their concerns will be taken seriously.

 

As Safer Business Action Week comes to a close, I want to reassure businesses across Dorset that tackling business crime remains a priority. I will continue to work with Dorset Police and our partners to ensure the voices of retailers are heard, improve confidence in reporting and push for effective action to bring offenders to justice. Our businesses play a vital role in our communities, and they deserve to feel safe, supported and protected.

 

David Sidwick

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner