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Retailers across West Kent have reported a reduction in crime of more than 50 per cent following targeted patrols at shoplifting hotspots.
Detailed analysis of shoplifting patterns and offenders’ behaviour is helping to ensure resources are deployed in areas where there is the highest risk of theft – to help protect stores in Maidstone, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells.
Particular attention is being paid to locations where there are reports of repeated offending, including areas with Co-op, Boots and Marks and Spencer stores.
In June 2024, there were 63 reported offences of shoplifting in areas designated for targeted patrols across west Kent. This was down from 138 in May – a fall of 54 per cent.
Thefts across Tonbridge and Malling fell by more than two thirds, from 41 to 10, while shops in Tunbridge Wells saw a reduction from 28 offences to 15.
In the Maidstone district, reported crime decreased from 46 to 24.
Although much of the focus remains in busy town centres and retail parks, officers remain committed to also protecting stores in more rural and isolated areas.
Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon said:
‘Tackling shoplifting is a responsibility we take incredibly seriously and we have done a lot of work in recent years to increase solved rates, as well as the number of arrests made and charges.
‘We are also always looking at different ways to make it even harder for thieves to operate in the first place and these recent results are very encouraging.
‘Our officers know who the repeat offenders are and they use their knowledge of when and where these criminals are likely to strike, to coordinate patrols more effectively.’
One of these areas is around a Co-op store in Harrietsham, which has also reported recent reductions in crime.
Store manager, Jamie Thomis, said:
‘The increased police presence has had a significant positive effect on the store. Not only has it had a massive effect on the reduction in shoplifting it has also made my staff feel safer and not so isolated in a rural location.’
Reporting all theft remains crucial
Ch Supt Loudon added:
‘I really hope the work we are doing is helping to make staff and customers feel safer and would like to assure all retailers, both big and small, that there will be no let-up in our determination to prevent and arrest those whose actions can have a devastating impact on businesses.
‘Please also remember to report all crimes to the police. This can be crucial in helping us build an accurate picture of where there may be persistent problems, and ultimately means we can provide a more effective and robust response’.
Call 999 if a crime is in progress. Non-urgent incidents can be reported online at www.kent.police.uk/report.