More town centre shoplifters are getting caught say Paignton police

By adamjohn78 | Tuesday, February 08, 2011, 14:42

Paignton police say there’s been an increase in the number of detected thefts from shops in the town centre compared to the same time last year.

Increased town town patrols by police in Paignton.

A detection can range from a penalty notice being issued, to a charge and appearance in court, depending on the offender’s history.

A spokesman said: “Increased patrols and specific operations have seen an overall increase in the number of detected thefts in January 2011 compared to December 2010 from approximately 20 per cent to 50 per cent.

“Often thefts are not identified by staff until sometime after the event, which can make it much more difficult to investigate.”

PC Simon Lee from the town centre team added: “I would like to thank all of the Paignton retailers who have helped achieve this excellent result and continue to encourage them to contact the police to report any suspicious individuals or activity. We will not tolerate thieves and will continue to take robust and appropriate action against identified offenders.”